Paul Schafer notes that both terpenes and sulfurs have a scent, but sulfurs are the lingering scent that often raises complaints surrounding greenhouse and growing facilities. Odors from cannabis are more prominent in relation to variables such as time of day, light exposure, strain, maturity, and agitation, among others. Knowing how local meteorology can influence downwind perception of odor is crucial to being a good neighbor. While there is no “one size fits all” approach to odor control, addressing the skunky element of odors—the sulfurs—as well as implementing odor mitigation or management plans into standard operating procedures can reduce complaints. Having a robust complaint system provides further utility for remediation.
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About the Author: Paul Schafer, CIEC, VETC, is a Vice President, Project Director, and our National Expert on Ambient Air Monitoring and Odor Impact Assessments. During his technical career at SCS, Mr. Schafer has served in key roles on several nationally significant monitoring efforts. He has in-depth experience interfacing with regulatory agencies regarding the performance of monitoring systems, source emission tests, and continuous process monitors, which are operated for our clientele. Paul has experience in the measurement of criteria air pollutants, toxic air contaminants, hazardous air pollutants, greenhouse gases, odors, and related compounds. Paul’s expert team has established an ASTM-compliant odor lab in California to better serve our clients.
Additional Odor Control Resources:
