Overview

Question 1

When is reclamation of contaminated land most commonly carried out?

Answer 1

As part of obtaining planning permission for a new build

Question 2

Who is held responsible for pollution of land? Why can this sometimes pose issues?

Answer 2

The company that caused the pollution
In many cases, these companies do not exist anymore

Question 3

If the polluter cannot be charged for reclaiming polluted land, who bears the cost? What does this mean?

Answer 3

Local Councils or Developers
Reclamation will be tightly budget-controlled

Question 4

What is a Pollutant Linkage?

Answer 4

A Source, Pathway and Receptor chain

Question 5

When is remediation considered for a plot of land?

Answer 5

Only when there is a risk of pollution causing harm to people or protected environments e.g. aquifers

Question 6

What is the general order of operations for a reclamation project?

Answer 6

Preliminary Works inc. Site Investigation
Laboratory Analysis (which is ongoing throughout)
Earthworks
Soil Treatment
Waste Management
Validation

Question 7

Which legislation governs the remediation of contaminated land?

Answer 7

Environmental Protection Act for Contaminated Land (1990)
EU directives:
Water Framework Directive and the Groundwater directive
Environmental Liability Directive
Soil Framework Directive (In development)