Brownfields

In major cities across Canada, there has been growing interest in brownfield redevelopment to meet the rising demand for commercial and industrial property. These contaminated sites can represent significant investment opportunities with proper environmental management.

AEL employs a combination of remediation and risk assessment strategies that enable the redevelopment of brownfield sites. Our professional team of environmental engineers and geoscientists work alongside clients to ensure that the appropriate steps are taken to bring a brownfield site back into use. 

Proven Methods of Brownfield Remediation

With the right approach, brownfield sites can be transformed into valuable assets for communities and businesses alike. Remediation strategies include: 

Risk Assessment (RA) – A Risk Assessment (RA) may be a viable option if practical challenges or project costs prevent a full site remediation. In the case of brownfield properties, there is always a possibility that the cost of remediation might outweigh the benefits of redevelopment. A Risk Assessment-based Record of Site Condition (RSC) provides site owners with indemnification from the Ministry of Environmental Conservation and Parks (MECP) and can be more cost-effective.

Groundwater Remediation – Once we have gained a clear understanding of the source(s) of contamination and the nature of contaminant(s), we can work with you to determine an appropriate Remedial Action Plan (RAP) for your distinct brownfield property.  

Soil Remediation – The remediation of impacted soil does not have to be a guessing game. Our innovative approach to remediation employs on-site testing to ensure confidence in the management of your brownfield site(s). By testing soil throughout an excavation, we can save you both time and money in your quest to redevelop a brownfield property.

Bioremediation – In certain cases where soil excavation or pumping contaminated groundwater off-site is too challenging or not cost-effective, AEL employs bioremediation. This effective, in-situ remediation technology may serve as the best alternative for your brownfield property, it has the benefit of actually treating the problem, rather than relocating it elsewhere.

Tax Rebates for Property Owners Who Remediate Brownfield Sites

As always, the best approach to remediating a brownfield site will depend on a combination of environmental due diligence and your own personal site goals. You may even qualify for a tax incentive to help revitalize vacant property. One example is the Brownfields Financial Tax Incentive Program (BTIP) from the Government of Ontario, which can help offset the costs of remediation for the owners of eligible brownfield properties. 

This financial tool provides municipalities with tax assistance to clean up brownfield properties. A property must have a Community Improvement Plan and the results of a Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) in order to qualify for the program.

Expert Environmental Consulting on Brownfield Site Remediation

With expert guidance from the AEL team and the right remedial action plan, brownfield redevelopment can lead to significant investment opportunities for property owners.

Ready to take the next step towards transforming a brownfield site? We invite you to discuss your site-specific goals and situation with our team of experts.

To better understand AEL’s remediation approaches, read our insightful blog post on remediation innovations or watch our insightful webinar recording below.