How the Environment Agency defines odour pollution

The definition of odour pollution that the Environment Agency uses to regulate industry and protect the public.

The Environment Agency has a duty to regulate odour from certain industrial processes and waste sites. This is to protect and improve public health and wellbeing.

The British Standard EN 13725:2022 defines odour as a:

sensation perceived by means of the olfactory organ in sniffing certain volatile substances.

The standard also defines an odorant as a:

substance which, when volatilised in neutral gas, has the potential to stimulate the human olfactory system so that an odour is perceived

The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 define pollution as:

any emission as a result of human activity which may:

(a) be harmful to human health or the quality of the environment,
(b) cause offence to a human sense,
(c) result in damage to material property, or
(d) impair or interfere with amenities or other legitimate uses of the environment

The Environment Agency will treat odorous emissions in the same way as any other polluting emission.

Harmful to human health or the quality of the environment

People may think that the quality of the environment where they live is poor if they experience offensive odours (smells).

People who experience odour pollution regularly report offence, discomfort, emotional distress and concern about what they might be exposed to.

Vulnerable individuals may be even more likely to be distressed by offensive odours. These can include people who have health concerns and pregnant women.

Family members and carers can also become concerned if they believe the people they care for are in danger or distress.

People sometimes report ill health symptoms which may be caused or made worse by stress. But causal links can be difficult to establish.

While carrying out its regulatory functions, the Environment Agency relies on advice about public health impacts from the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Cause offence to a human sense

Odour pollution is one of the most frequent categories of pollution reported to the Environment Agency.

Damage to material property

Odour does not damage property.

Impair or interfere with amenities or other legitimate uses of the environment

People eating, attending community events or carrying out leisure activities can be especially affected by odour pollution incidents. Many reporters say that they are unable to enjoy their homes or gardens if there is odour pollution. Businesses or charities may also be affected as events are cancelled, or potential customers avoid a location.