Forum discussion

NC-2009 SSc3:Brownfield Redevelopment

Soil remediation

The definition of remediation as it relates to this credit is the process of cleaning up a contaminated site by physical, chemical, or biological means. Is the physical removal of contaminated soil from a site considered remediation, even if the soil is not "cleaned" after it's removed?

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Fri, 07/06/2012 - 06:48

Mark, The physical removal of contaminated soil from a site is one method of remediation. However, the EPA established the Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR) program in an effort to protect groundwater from hazardous waste contamination. As such, the LDR standards require all hazardous waste to be treated prior to being placed on the land (i.e., hazardous landfill) for final disposal. Virtually all current wastes now have treatment standards. However, the program is extremely convoluted and difficult to understand. I would suggest contracting with a local hazardous waste handler to do the actual disposal. Hazardous waste handlers are responsible for identifying all applicable listed and characteristic waste codes in each waste stream and ensuring that their wastes meet all appropriate treatment standards, if applicable, before disposal. I say “if applicable” because contrary to the above stated requirements on EPA’s website, there are exemptions/exceptions.

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