What’s that smell?

The smell comes from the Gascogne Papier paper mill in Mimizan. This plant produces pulp and unbleached kraft paper. It is the world’s leading producer of rubbed natural kraft paper. It was created in 1925 by foresters to valorize maritime pine by-products, and promote the upkeep and reforestation of the Landes forest.

It is in fact the steam generated by the cooking of the wood that produces the sulfurous odor. It can be disturbing, depending on your sensitivity. Some people are not bothered at all, while others find it very hard to tolerate.

Is it harmful?

No, the smell you can smell in the area is not harmful. This plant uses an environmentally-friendly manufacturing process, from forest to paper. Groupe Gascogne’s industrial sites are subject to strict European regulations on the quantity and quality of their atmospheric and aqueous emissions.

Is it every day?

Unfortunately, it’s quite unpredictable, depending on the wind. In fact, it’s possible to smell this odor every day, just as it’s possible not to smell it for several weeks. Sometimes, even at the foot of the paper mill, we don’t smell a thing.