From drones to artificial intelligence, the science of smells takes centre stage

From nuisance to data. Because the science of odours is taking centre stage in the fields of the environment, artificial intelligence and health. And a system that makes it possible to measure the air quality and the healthiness of workplaces and production facilities. Not least because odour-causing emissions are recognised as a key environmental, technical, regulatory and social issue. This topical issue is therefore at the heart of NOSE2026, the International Conference on Environmental Monitoring of Odours and VOCs – now in its tenth edition – organised by Aidic and the Politecnico di Milano.

“With NOSE2026, the Italian chemical engineering sector reaffirms its ability to bring together research, industrial innovation and environmental responsibility,” comments Giuseppe Ricci, president of Aidic, the Italian Association of Chemical Engineers. “This event represents a moment of great significance in the Italian research and business landscape, as it addresses an issue that is increasingly central to the sustainability of production processes, the quality of local areas and the relationship between businesses, institutions and citizens.”

Over the last twenty years, the issue of odour – which used to cause local annoyance and discomfort – has become an established fact.

‘Noise, dust and fumes could be measured and reported more immediately; odour, on the other hand, seemed to fall within the realm of subjective perception – according to the experts at Aidic. Scientific research, advances in sampling methods, dynamic olfactometry, dispersion models, instrumental monitoring systems and the growing involvement of local communities have gradually transformed this landscape.”

Technology and innovation – and, consequently, the use of data – have contributed to this change. Today, odours are no longer merely a nuisance but are regarded as indicators of the relationship between industrial activity, air quality, land-use planning, waste management, water treatment, industrial processes and people’s well-being. “Twenty years ago, the idea of odour analysis raised a smile. Today, the issue of odour nuisance is a cause for concern, divides communities and requires increasingly sophisticated tools to be understood,” emphasises Selena Sironi, full professor at the Politecnico di Milano and scientific director of the Olfactometric Laboratory. The tenth edition of Nose recounts this transformation and confirms the importance of international dialogue amongst those who study, measure, regulate and communicate a phenomenon that is invisible yet deeply present in everyday life. Talking about odours today means talking about quality of life, sustainability, innovation, public participation and the future of cities and industrial areas.”