Developing a plan for greener Superfund cleanups across the nation
EPA's Superfund Green Remediation Strategy sets out current plans of the Superfund Remedial Program to reduce the demand placed on the environment during cleanup actions and to conserve natural resources. The strategy outlines 40 specific action items aligned with 9 key actions. Many of the strategic actions can be addressed through policy and guidance development, resource development, and a series of near-term initiatives:- Maximize use of renewable energy with a goal of using 100% renewable energy to power site operations, and identify methods for increasing energy efficiency;
- Incorporate green remediation factors as part of remedy optimization evaluations starting in fiscal year 2010;
- Pursue ways to reduce the use of natural resources and energy during remedial actions and when developing cleanup alternatives;
- Integrate clean, renewable, and innovative energy sources and advanced diesel technologies (such as diesel particulate filters and alternative fuels) and encourage operational practices (such as engine idle reduction practices) to minimize total emissions;
- Establish tools to track and increase potable water conservation, the reuse of treated water, and recharge of aquifers;
- Identify additional onsite or offsite uses of materials or energy otherwise considered waste;
- Include language in statements of work for removal action, remedial design, and remedial action procurement contracts that specifies use of green remediation practices and requires separate reports for energy/fuel usage and costs; and
- Help communities establish networks and training programs that enable local workers (including minority and low-income populations) to gain proficiency in expertise needed for green cleanups, such as energy efficiency auditing and renewable energy applications.
read more here:
epagov-super-fund-green-remediation
