The evaluation of natural attenuation processes in ecological risk assessments

Conference · Sat Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1994

OSTI ID:40152

Swindoll, C M; Dziuk, L J ^[1]

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1. DuPont Environmental Remediation Services, Wilmington, DE (United States)

The intent of the ecological risk assessment (ERA) process is to provide the scientific basis for making remediation decisions that are protective of the environment. In some instances, remedial actions may result in more damage to area flora and fauna than is warranted based on the long-term risk of the chemical stressor; this is particularly true of wetlands. To minimize the potential for putting the site`s ecosystem at greater risk because of remediation, the ERA should include an evaluation of ``no action`` and ``nondestructive`` scenarios. An essential component of this evaluation is an assessment of the natural attenuation of the chemical stressor. Natural processes including biodegradation, hydrolysis, photodegradation, speciation, and complexation can be important to the mitigation of long-term ecological impact of chemical substances. The importance of natural processes for the attenuation of contaminants in aquifers is recognized by both the regulatory and scientific communities and has been adopted by several states as a viable remedial alternative. The potential for natural attenuation to reduce environmental risk is greater for surface environments than for the subsurface. The rationale, methodology, and tools available for evaluating natural attenuation in the context of the ERA process will be presented. Specific examples of implementing this approach at several industrial sites and benefits, including the effective utilization of limited regulatory and industrial resources, will be discussed.

• OSTI ID: 40152
• Report Number(s): CONF-9410273--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
INDUSTRIAL WASTES
POLLUTION CONTROL
REMEDIAL ACTION
RISK ASSESSMENT
WASTE MANAGEMENT