Evaluation of Odours Perception by Residents of the Municipality of Toledo/Paraná State/Brazil

Abstract

Aims: Air pollution is responsible for numerous discomforts and health problems in humans, and it can be observed in large urban centres and small towns. The present study aimed to evaluate the perception of odours by residents of the municipality of Toledo, located in Paraná State, South region of Brazil.  Study Design: The study was based on a questionnaire and a perception of the residents. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the city of Toledo/PR/Brazil and all the procedures were realised in two months. Methodology: To achieve the objectives, the municipality of Toledo was divided into four quadrants that housed 20 potential sources of odour emission. In each of the quadrants, 25 residents were randomly interviewed using pre-established questionnaires. Results: From the answers given by the residents and after the tabulation of the results, it was verified that the presence of odours in the municipality was verified by 87% of the interviewees. Among whom they stated that the odours are responsible for some type of physical discomfort (43% of appetite due to odours) and even psychological (44% stated that odours present in the municipality cause stress). Through the interviews it was possible to confirm some sources of possible odour emission, however, there is a need for further studies and monitoring of the air quality in the municipality so that the emitting sources will be identified. Conclusion: The residents of all quadrants studied in Toledo city observed odours in the city; also, they evidence the problems that are caused by them, what needs some concern of the municipal government. During the research, it was identified the need for further studies on this topic considering that it is a poorly studied area and that there is a need for regulations and methodologies to assist in the identification of pollutant sources.