CONTAMINATED LAND REMEDIATION IN THE UK WITH REFERENCE TO RISK ASSESSMENT - 2 CASE-STUDIES

The approach to land reclamation in the UK has traditionally relied up on the use of cover and concealment, which can leave a legacy of probl ems below the ground. Alternatively, the bulk export of materials to l icensed landfill has often been used, but this (a) simply transfers a problem, (b) can cause considerable disruption, and (c) is becoming in creasingly expensive. Remedial strategies involving the use of barrier systems or off-site removal both have their place in the efficient an d economic development of contaminated sites. However, there is now in creasing interest in the use of on-site technology which can provide c ost savings and by treating, destroying or stabilizing contamination, can serve to minimize future liabilities. The design, costing and appl ication of treatment, as opposed to cover or disposal, depends fundame ntally on understanding the problem and evaluating the capabilities an d availability of appropriate technologies. With reference to UK case studies, this paper highlights some of the options available and route s taken in order to achieve site-specific, commercially-acceptable, re medial responses.