Ever wondered if your neighbourhood odour could be impacting your health? UBC researchers have uncovered surprising insights into the Vancouver region’s “smellscape” using data from the Smell Vancouver app.
Ever wondered if your neighbourhood odour could be impacting your health? UBC researchers have uncovered surprising insights into the Vancouver region’s “smellscape” using data from the Smell Vancouver app. Analyzing 549 reports from one year of app data, they discovered that “rotten” and “chemical” odours dominated, making up about 65 per cent of submissions. These unpleasant smells were linked to self-reported health issues like headaches and anxiety, leading some residents to change their behaviours, like closing windows even in stifling-hot weather.
“The reports illustrate how odours can be more than just a nuisance—they can impact physical and mental health, well-being, and quality of life,” said Dr. Amanda Giang, senior study author and assistant professor in UBC’s department of mechanical engineering and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability.
The app identified major sources of urban odours, including waste management and industrial activities. Four municipalities—City of Vancouver, Delta, Burnaby and Richmond—emerged as hotspots, each with its own distinct smell profiles and associated symptoms. Reports from Vancouver overwhelmingly focused on animal processing, while Delta saw higher complaints about garbage and compost, farming and cannabis.
Read more at University of British Columbia
