Comprehensive decision methodology for site remediation
- Univ. of Toronto, Ontario (Canada). Dept. of Civil Engineering
A comprehensive decision framework for assessing site remediation issues is being developed to assist the decision maker, frequently the owner of the contaminated site, in selecting the optimal level of remediation. The proposed framework overcomes inadequacies in existing methodologies by comprehensively addressing the following issues: the multiple objectives of the owner; the multiple objectives of the local community; the effects of uncertainties; the significance of regulations; and the potential conflicts between the parties. Furthermore, this framework provides guidance on how the needed information can be acquired and interpreted. The paper presents an overview of the proposed framework. First, the owner is assumed to have three main objectives: maximize site value; minimize remediation costs; and minimize liability. These are defined in economic terms so that the net benefits to the owner for alternative levels of remediation can be evaluated. Particular attention is given to the factors that affect liability. The effects of uncertainty on these three objectives are incorporated through a sensitivity analysis. The objectives of the local community--minimizing health impacts, maximizing financial benefits from the site, and maximizing site use benefits--and net benefits function are then described from an economic perspective. An example illustrates the effects of different levels of site remediation on the net benefits to the owner and the local community. This information can be used to identify the preferred cleanup levels to these groups, as well as the conflicts between them. Work is continuing on refining the decision framework.
- OSTI ID:
- 354295
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-970677--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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