The biological materials research division of the National Institute of Biological Resources of the Nakdong River, which received the Board of Audit and Inspection chief's commendation. [National Institute of Biological Resources of the Nakdong River]
The biological materials research division of the National Institute of Biological Resources of the Nakdong River, which received the Board of Audit and Inspection chief's commendation. [National Institute of Biological Resources of the Nakdong River]

The National Institute of Biological Resources of the Nakdong River announced Friday that its biological materials research division has been named a "2026 Model Division for Proactive Administration" by the Board of Audit and Inspection, earning the agency chief's commendation for its work using freshwater microorganisms to reduce livestock odors at pig farms.

Livestock odors accounted for 57.9 percent of all odor-related complaints nationwide in 2021, and the high cost of odor-control facilities and the limitations of existing microbial products have long placed a heavy burden on small and midsize livestock farms.

In response, the institute began field investigations in 2022, identifying 17 types of odor-causing compounds generated at livestock sites and isolating 33 strains of freshwater microorganisms capable of breaking them down.

In 2025, working with local governments, the institute piloted the distribution of odor-reducing microorganisms at five pig farms. Odor activity levels measured near the farms fell by more than 70 percent as a result.

The institute also transferred the odor-reducing microorganisms to three private companies to advance commercialization of deodorizing products for household and industrial use, helping spread the technology more broadly.

Alongside this, the institute extended its research findings into the community by partnering with high school science clubs to conduct studies on reducing everyday odors in the local area.

"We will continue to expand cooperation with local governments and industry to enhance the practical value of the nation's freshwater biological resources and contribute to improving the environment in our communities," said Jeong Yu-jin, head of the institute's applied technology development office.


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