OdourCollect is an innovative citizen science platform developed to enhance the monitoring and management of odour pollution, especially in complex settings with multiple emission sources.
By actively involving local communities in the detection and reporting of odour events, the platform produces collaborative, real-time odour maps that are integrated with meteorological and regulatory information. This participatory methodology not only improves the characterisation and localisation of odour impacts but also facilitates compliance with the UNE 77270:2023 standard. Consequently, OdourCollect serves as an effective tool for environmental consultants, public authorities, and citizens to comprehensively manage odour-related environmental challenges.
R. Arias* & J. Burbano
Science for Change, C. de Vilamarí, 50, Planta 7, Eixample, 08015 Barcelona
* rosa.arias@scienceforchange.eu
Competing interests: The author has declared that no competing interests exist.
Academic editor: Carlos N. Díaz.
Content quality: This paper has been peer-reviewed by at least two reviewers. See scientific committee here.
Citation: R. Arias* & J. Burbano, 2025, OdourCollect: Revolutionizing Odour Monitoring and Management with Citizen Science Under the UNE 77270:2023 Standard, OLORES25 Congress, Santiago, Chile, www.olores.org.
Copyright: 2025 Olores.org. Open Content Creative Commons licence. It is allowed to download, reuse, reprint, modify, distribute, and/or copy articles on Olores.org website, as long as the original authors and source are cited. No permission is required from the authors or the publishers.
ISBN: pending.
Keywords: Citizen science, odour pollution, odour episodes, collaborative maps, annoyance degree, environmental monitoring
Abstract
Traditional methodologies for assessing odour pollution are effective in most cases, but they have limitations in complex situations involving multiple emitting sources. These scenarios account for 30% of odour impact cases, highlighting the need for innovative approaches. In this context, OdourCollect, developed by Science for Change, offers a solution based on citizen participation. This environmental management platform enables the creation of collaborative odour maps, in compliance with UNE 77270:2023 standards. Through real-time data collection by citizens, affected areas are identified and characterised, providing deeper insight into the impact of odours on the community. OdourCollect also integrates additional data sources, such as meteorology, making it a robust tool for environmental consultants, public authorities, and citizens alike. This article details the platform’s management components and how they contribute to regulatory compliance.
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