For 25 years, AEL environment has provided innovative environmental and land restoration solutions. By using a collaborative and transparent approach, we work with clients to create tailored solutions based on individual needs and site-specific goals. This commitment to professional integrity and personal responsiveness has enhanced our reputation as leaders in Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), testing, and remediation. Here is a look back at 25 years of excellence in environmental and land restoration services.

In the Beginning

It all starts with a solid foundation. In 1999, AEL environment was initially formed under the name of AEON Management. AEL would later become a proud division of AEON Egmond Ltd. in 2004. Later that same year, 0.Reg. 153/04 was approved – the guiding legislation in Ontario which still provides regulatory compliance for property owners today.

During the year 2000, AEL piloted the use of x-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing for arsenic in soil. This testing supports environmental field work with high quality data that is downloaded into GIS based data management and analysis software for real-time results. The biggest benefits of XRF come from on-site measurement of contaminant data, enabling decisions regarding delineation and digging to be made in real-time, eliminating the need for over-digging, multiple excavations, and waiting for lab results thereby reducing the budget and timeline required for successful remediation.

In the early 2000’s, AEL employed XRF analysis on an ambitious project that spanned multiple transformer – housing sites across Southern Ontario. Phase 2 ESAs were conducted at each site to determine the potential value and environmental impact associated with continued use. Due to XRF technology and our custom solution, the client was able to identify next steps and make an informed decision regarding the status of their site. Learn more about our multi-hydro site case study.

As technology and remedial efforts advanced over time, AEL environment continued to adapt. SiteLab ultra-violet fluorescence (UVF) testing equipment was utilized for on-site petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) testing in 2006. UVF is used as a field screening tool during remediation as it can provide a clear determination of the areas of impact in minutes and can also be operated by a battery pack. Ultimately, UVF has been a valuable on-site testing technology for AEL due to its suitability for use on a wide range of sites, saving both time and money.

In 2007, AEL integrated XRF analysis for testing and amendments at a remote copper impacted site. Following a past investigation by previous consultants, an ESA was conducted and revealed concentrations of 35 metals, including copper at resolution below action criteria. To minimize mobilization/demobilization on-site, AEL quickly characterized the site in-situ by using the Niton X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, which provided immediate quantitative data. By screening the copper impacted material on-site and returning “clean” material for reuse, AEL was able to reduce the amount of material shipped off-site while still managing to remove associated environmental risk and liability. Take a closer look at our VOR Station rehabilitation case study. 

On-site UVF testing was successfully integrated into another important project in 2007 when AEL was retained to conduct a Phase 1 and 2 ESA on a former transport truck repair and maintenance property. The use of UVF enabled AEL to acquire a deep understanding of the site’s PHC contamination and greatly reduce the timeline and cost of a Phase 2 ESA. AEL developed a remedial plan to clean the PHC contamination and meet regulatory compliance, while at the same time being protective of the natural environment. Learn more about this bioremediation case study.

In 2012, AEL embarked upon a multi-year remediation of an asbestos and lead impacted site in a remote area of Nunavut, where the client’s goals were to remove all buildings at a former flight service station, dispose of materials appropriately and perform environmental screening investigation. AEL worked with local contractors and an indigenous group, providing 12 jobs for two work seasons at this logistically complex site. 

AEL Continues Breaking Ground

By 2015, XRF on-site testing was becoming more common because of its speed and efficiency as a remedial tool. AEL implemented this technology for nuclear waste in the Port Hope area on another successful remediation project.

In a groundbreaking milestone, AEL became one of the first in Canada to utilize a GGMS Torian site screening lab in 2017. This enabled on-site testing for soil, water, and vapour impacts from volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

In 2018, AEL assumed remediation of a remote, fly-in petroleum impacted site on First Nation territory. The remediation process involved an on-site water treatment program, UVF spectrograph, and regular drone surveys. With AEL’s expert guidance, the excavation and disposal of 2,700 cubic metres of contaminated soil was completed and the site closed, with long-term monitoring to follow. Learn more about the tremendous success of this remote-access bioremediation project.

Over the next few years, AEL continued to grow and prosper. In 2021, AEL completed a peer review of technical documents for the transfer of a 355 km trail from Federal Government to Territorial ownership. The same year, AEL also began tackling a complex remediation and Risk Assessment project at a large industrial bulk-good loading lock on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, overseeing all site activities including excavation, mobilization, treatment and tracking of over 65,000 m3 of heavily contaminated soil.

XRF technology was later used to analyze tracer gas from a nuclear power plant emissions stack for filter screen analysis in 2022.

AEL is Celebrating its 25th Milestone Anniversary in 2024!

Since our auspicious beginnings in 1999, AEL environment has been focused on providing value-added services in the assessment and remediation of contaminated sites. AEL’s track record of successfully completed projects and high volume of repeat business is a testament to our technical competency and diligent project management. While the field of environmental remediation has significantly advanced over the past 25 years, we have remained at the forefront of science and innovation. Our dedicated team of engineers and scientists use proven remedial methods and cutting-edge technology to meet your distinct property goals. No matter what the future holds, we look forward to much continued collaboration and success over the next 25 years and beyond.