Dr Will Tullett urges better scent education for children

Dr Will Tullett, a historian of smells at the University of York, told an exclusive interview that children would benefit from a more systematic education in identifying and appreciating aromas. He argued that a deeper understanding of scent could enhance wellbeing and help young people make sense of their surroundings, noting that current curricula largely overlook olfactory learning. Tullett highlighted recent research linking air‑pollution exposure to reduced olfactory performance, suggesting that environmental factors already compromise the sense of smell for many individuals.

The historian also warned that many everyday items—from margarine and car interiors to household furnishings—have been stripped of their natural odors and replaced with synthetic “reodourising” agents. According to Tullett, this trend diminishes authentic sensory experiences and may further erode the public’s connection to the natural world. He called for educational reforms that re‑introduce genuine scent exposure, aiming to restore both health benefits and a richer perception of everyday life.