Dan Collins, P.E.

How To’s, Do’s and Don'ts for Controlling Odors and Emissions in Composting Facilities

Dan Collins, P.E., Organics Consultant, Sustainable Generation, LLC

Composting is becoming increasingly more complex with the introduction of food waste, animal by-products and biosolids. As the organic waste feedstocks become more putrescible, and more scrutiny is given for air and water quality protection is resulting in a transition away from traditional windrowing turning towards controlled composting technologies. This presentation will discuss the causes of odors in composting, what trends are emerging in compost technology and finally how to establish sustainable best practices for mitigating odors. Key Learnings:  Composters will learn how simple mistakes can lead to big problems, these are the do’s and don’ts.  As more complex feed stocks enter the composting process, composters will need better technology with enhanced control.  Keeping a clean site and having a consistent environmental operations plan will assist in mitigating odors.  

Dan Collins is a veteran in biosolids management and organics recycling, bringing over three decades of experience in wastewater treatment, solids handling, and composting strategy. As a licensed Professional Engineer in Illinois with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University Northwest, Dan has devoted his career to transforming how municipalities view and manage organic waste.  Dan began his career with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRDGC) in 1987, rising from intern to Section Head of the Biosolids Division. There, he led efforts to eliminate landfill disposal of biosolids, reduce operating costs, and launch a successful composting program, culminating in the District earning Platinum Certification from the National Biosolids Partnership.  Since 2017, Dan has served as a consultant for Sustainable Generation® and GORE® Cover, as well as firms such as Greeley and Hansen, Donohue & Associates, and Brown and Caldwell. His work focuses on feasibility studies, master planning, and full-scale implementation of composting programs for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), guiding clients toward Class A, odor-free biosolids products.  A strong advocate for compost's environmental and economic value, Dan uses a triple-bottom-line analysis to help clients make informed decisions about resource recovery. He’s especially passionate about demonstrating how compost offers long-term soil benefits through its macro and micronutrient content, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers.