A thorough investigation of a chemical release to the subsurface is an iterative process that can take from a few months to several years to adequately define the nature and extent of the impacted media to the satisfaction of regulators. Multiple states and even federal programs require a sustainability component to remedial evaluations, but there is no obligation to evaluate the environmental impact of investigation activities. The resources required to conduct an environmental assessment can stack up rather quickly, especially when 1) inappropriate methods and approaches applied to an investigation, or 2) inexperienced consultants and/or regulators lack the wherewithal to assess site data and come to satisfactory conclusions.
The purpose of this presentation is to show the audience that an environmental investigation goes much further in its impact than “defining the nature and extent of soil and groundwater contamination”. We have evaluated the potential environmental footprint of conducting an investigation, the associated costs, and identified areas to reduce investigation costs and impact to the environment. The goal is to get people to start thinking about their choices in assessment and how it impacts our land and fellow citizens.
We’ll provide examples of waste streams generated, pros and cons of various environmental sampling approaches, cost breakdowns and other data that holistically affects our land, water and air. We plan to tie-in Environmental Justice as it relates to site assessment, and what everyone can do to ensure the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards for everyone.
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