Dealing with Odour Compliance and Odour Control Pilot Study
The document outlines a pilot study conducted by the Region of Peel to address odour complaints associated with its composting operations. The study is presented by Brad Bergeron and includes a comprehensive overview of the Region's waste management practices, particularly focusing on the Peel Integrated Waste Management Facility (PIWMF) and its composting processes.
The agenda includes an overview of the Region of Peel's composting history, initial odour studies, and a discussion of pilot results. The background section highlights the demographic and waste management statistics of the Region, noting a significant amount of residential waste managed and a goal to divert 70% of waste from disposal by 2016.
The initial composting operations began in 1995, utilizing a two-phase composting technology, which was expanded in 2006 to accommodate a larger volume of organic waste. However, numerous odour complaints arose from neighbours between April and June 2007, leading to the suspension of operations and a search for solutions.
The Region evaluated the GORE™ Cover System for its secondary composting process, which showed promising results in reducing odour levels. The pilot study involved testing the effectiveness of zeolite, a mineral known for its adsorbent properties, in controlling odour when mixed with compost materials. The study compared control windrows with and without zeolite over a four-week period, measuring odour concentrations at various stages.
Results indicated that while the cover system was effective in controlling odour, the addition of zeolite significantly enhanced odour reduction, particularly when covers were removed. The document concludes with a summary of the findings and outlines future steps, including further studies to validate the pilot results and explore additional compounds for odour control.
This research paper is significant in the field of waste management and environmental science, particularly concerning composting operations and odour control. It contributes to ongoing discussions about sustainable waste management practices and the challenges associated with odour emissions from composting facilities. The findings from the pilot study offer practical insights into the effectiveness of using zeolite as an odour control measure, which could be beneficial for other regions facing similar issues. The study emphasizes the importance of compliance with environmental regulations and the need for continuous improvement in waste management practices, making it a valuable resource for professionals in the field.
