When it comes to brownfields, a certain type of contaminant or the extent of a contaminant determines what steps will be taken to initiate the cleanup process.
Irrespective of which cleanup method is employed, the process is generally overseen and performed to meet the regulatory agency’s satisfaction. And it is the characteristics of the contamination onsite that determines the cost of brownfield site cleanups.
A typical approach aims at eliminating and addressing contamination’s source and then relying on controls to cut off the exposure pathway to both the environment and humans.
Listed below are some of the methods followed by experts for brownfield cleanup –
1- The excavation
The excavation process involves digging the contaminants on the site. The contaminated surface and subsurface soil are then transported to landfill disposal or ex-situ treatment.
Clean soil is then filled in the excavated area to create a levelled surface.
2- Tank removal
Lands that have USTs or underground storage tanks typically have contaminated soil that can contain fuels like gasoline, etc.
Hence, during the brownfields cleanup, experts also remove the tank. The soil is then assessed for any type of contamination and removed if necessary.
3- Cover and barrier systems
When a contaminated area or soil is located, physical fences or barriers are installed along the contaminated site’s circumference. Using a layer of clean soil or geotextile or both, the contaminated soil is then capped to protect the cleanup areas as well as prevent any contamination from spreading.
4- In-situ and bioremediation
This process deals with injecting chemicals into the soil. The aim behind it is to break down the contaminants so they can be converted into less toxic byproducts.
To solidify or stabilize the soil, chemical or binding agents are added, thereby preventing the movement of contamination.
5- Phytoremediation
The contaminated soil is then provided with microbial growth by introducing nutrients, chemicals or oxygen.
The microbes help by consuming the organic contaminants and degrading them into less-harmful compounds such as gas or water.
6- Asbestos and lead relief
Lastly, the experts or agency that you chose for cleaning Brownfields in BC will employ specially trained, expert and licensed contractors to tackle the lead and asbestos problem of the brownfield.
These experts employ various tools – all specialized for the process, to eliminate any type of contaminated material from the soil.
Preventative and institutional controls
In cases where the contaminants are still present onsite post the cleanup, preventative and intuitional controls are implemented by reducing human exposure and controlling offsite migration to ensure the land is safe for the decided use.
Over to you
Do you have brownfields in BC that need to be assessed and cleaned up for an upcoming project? Consider speaking with the experts at NEXT Environmental to get assistance with the services listed above and more!
Shane Aston is the author of this article. To know more about Environmental Consulting Kelownaplease visit our website: nextenvironmental.com