In a bold move to tackle air quality issues, the northern Italian town of Brendola is on the lookout for volunteers to serve as “odour evaluators.” This initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Bruno Beltrame, aims to address the persistent complaints from residents living near industrial zones who have reported unpleasant smells infiltrating their neighbourhoods.
A Response to Residents’ Concerns
Brendola, situated in the province of Vicenza, finds itself in the heart of the Po Valley—an area notorious for its poor air quality. In response to mounting grievances about offensive odours, Mayor Beltrame has initiated a campaign to recruit six individuals who can help identify the sources of these smells. The criteria for applicants are straightforward: they must be free from allergies or respiratory conditions and possess a vehicle along with a smartphone to log their findings via a dedicated application.
Training will be provided by a specialist firm in odour measurement, equipping the selected evaluators with the skills to differentiate between various scents, including those stemming from factories, industrial waste, or sewage. Their primary task will involve visiting designated areas to conduct sensory evaluations, where they will document their experiences if they encounter noxious odours.
A Historical Approach
This initiative is not the town’s first foray into odour assessment. Mayor Beltrame noted a similar investigation was conducted five years ago in a nearby industrial area, which successfully identified the companies responsible for unpleasant emissions. “Now, we are expanding our search to determine whether the same culprits are at fault or if new offenders have emerged,” he explained.
Brendola is nestled at the end of the valley, just before the foothills of the Alps, which complicates the challenge of maintaining air quality amidst heavy industrial activity. “This region is one of the most productive, but it also poses significant pollution risks,” Beltrame added. The local government continuously implements various initiatives aimed at enhancing air and water quality, and businesses found violating environmental regulations face substantial fines.
Community Engagement and Recruitment Efforts
With a population of around 4,000, residents of Brendola have become increasingly proactive about environmental protection. “In the past, the community may have been somewhat indifferent, but now there’s a strong desire to improve both quality of life and the environment,” Beltrame remarked. Citizens are more inclined to report issues such as abandoned waste and foul air, enabling the local authority to respond swiftly and mitigate potential crises.
The recruitment campaign for odour evaluators initially saw little interest after being advertised shortly before Christmas. However, a renewed push on social media has attracted around a dozen applicants, primarily university students looking to earn some extra money alongside their studies. “They seem eager to contribute to this important cause,” stated Beltrame, reflecting optimism about the initiative’s prospects.
Why it Matters
This innovative approach highlights the growing awareness and commitment among local communities to address environmental challenges. As air quality continues to deteriorate in the Po Valley, initiatives like Brendola’s serve as a model for other towns grappling with similar issues. By empowering residents to take an active role in monitoring and improving their environment, Brendola not only aims to combat pollution but also fosters a sense of community responsibility and engagement in safeguarding public health.
