A supplementary Phase 2  Environmental Sites Assessment (ESA), sometimes referred to as Phase 3, is focused on addressing site contamination and the need for remediation.  This includes both the planning and execution of a remedial action plan (RAP) for an impacted site.

The Phase 1 and Phase 2 ESA provide environmental engineers with information related to the historical uses and current condition of a property. Phase 3 begins with delineating (investigating the boundaries of where contamination exists) and quantifying volumes of soils and groundwater to be remediated.

When the impacts have been effectively characterized, the team completes an analysis of remedial options best suited to the site. The client’s goals for the site are of primary concern in this step and will direct the team while selecting a remedial approach. Cost, timelines, and applicable regulations and limitations are also important in determining the most appropriate strategy for bringing the site into regulatory compliance.

The Phase 3 ESA will continue with the development and implementation of an environmental remediation strategy and work plan. Simple excavation and disposal of contaminated soils can often be completed in a single day of onsite field activities. Other remedial strategies including bioremediation or chemical oxidation may take months or years to reach completion. A drawn-out remediation process may be necessary due to unique site characteristics.

Sometimes, the best option is to leave contaminated soils in place and utilize a risk management-based environmental remediation strategy. AEL senior staff are able to provide guidance on risk-based approaches to remediation, including Modified Generic Risk Assessments (MGRA) and Site Specific Risk Assessments (SSRA) when cleanup is not feasible for a site. If natural attenuation and/or the creation of containment barriers is feasible, the consultant may include these risk management strategies in the RAP.