How does Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling Work?
Using specific methods, parameters, and procedures, Progress S.r.l. applies atmospheric dispersion models to simulate the spread of odours, gaseous chemical pollutants, and particulate matter across the surrounding territory. The models take into account emission source characteristics, meteorological conditions, and local topography to produce spatially resolved impact maps.
For odorous emissions in particular, Progress S.r.l. has developed unique expertise — unmatched in Italy — combining olfactometric measurement data with dispersion modelling to produce olfactory impact studies fully compliant with Italian and European regulatory requirements.
- Odour concentration mapping
- Odour emission rate modelling
- Gaseous chemical pollutants
- Particulate matter (dust)
- Meteorological data integration
- Local topography analysis
- Predictive impact assessments
- Reverse dispersion modelling
What Types of Studies do We Carry Out?
UNDERSTANDING THE SERVICE
Progress S.r.l. produces three main categories of environmental impact study — each serving a different regulatory or operational purpose.
Our innovative ambient air-based studies allow us to simulate the environmental impact of diffuse emissions across the entire surrounding territory — using pollutant concentrations measured at field monitoring points as input data, and working backwards via Reverse Dispersion Modelling to determine actual emission rates and mass fluxes.
Benefits of Dispersion Modelling
Atmospheric dispersion modelling transforms raw emission data into a clear, spatially resolved picture of environmental impact — supporting every stage from initial permit applications to ongoing compliance monitoring and legal proceedings.
Predictive Assessments
Simulate the olfactory and chemical impact of your facility before it is built or modified — supporting environmental permit applications and EIA procedures with legally compliant impact studies.
Compliance Verification
Demonstrate that your emissions comply with legal limits and permit conditions — using dispersion modelling based on actual monitored emission data.
Innovative Reverse Modelling
Progress S.r.l. applies Reverse Dispersion Modelling to determine actual emission rates from ambient air monitoring data — an innovative approach particularly suited to diffuse and fugitive emission sources.
Unique Italian Expertise
Nearly 30 years of experience in olfactory impact modelling — with specific expertise in the Lombardy regional guidelines (DGR IX/3018) and Italian environmental permit procedures across multiple regions.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Questions we often asked
What is an olfactory impact study?
An olfactory impact study combines olfactometric emission measurements with atmospheric dispersion modelling to simulate how odour spreads across the surrounding territory. The result is a spatial map showing odour concentration levels at different distances from the source — used to assess compliance with regulatory limits and tolerability thresholds.
When is a dispersion study required?
Dispersion studies are typically required as part of environmental permit applications (AIA, AUA), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA/VIA) procedures, and periodic compliance reviews. In Lombardy, olfactory impact studies must follow the methodology described in Annex 1 of Regional Resolution DGR IX/3018.
What pollutants can be modelled?
We model odour (concentration and emission rate), specific gaseous chemical pollutants (NH₃, H₂S, NOₓ, CO, etc.), and particulate matter (dust) — using the same atmospheric dispersion framework for all pollutant types.
What is Reverse Dispersion Modelling?
Reverse Dispersion Modelling works backwards from ambient air concentration measurements to determine the actual emission rates of a source. This innovative approach is particularly useful for diffuse or fugitive sources — such as landfills — where direct emission measurement is not feasible.
Can these studies be used as evidence in legal proceedings?
Yes. Progress S.r.l. has extensive experience providing dispersion modelling studies as technical evidence in civil and criminal proceedings related to olfactory pollution and environmental compliance.
