2.5 Brownfield remediation
9 min read•august 20, 2024
Brownfield remediation transforms contaminated urban sites into vibrant spaces. This process cleans up pollution, revitalizes neighborhoods, and promotes sustainable development. It's a key strategy for cities looking to grow responsibly and address environmental justice issues.
Redeveloping brownfields offers economic, social, and environmental benefits. By repurposing abandoned industrial areas, cities can create new jobs, increase property values, and improve quality of life. This approach also preserves greenfields and reduces urban sprawl.
Defining brownfield sites
Characteristics of brownfields
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- Abandoned, idled, or underused industrial and commercial properties where redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination
- Often located in urban areas with existing infrastructure (roads, utilities) and proximity to transportation networks
- May have dilapidated buildings, outdated equipment, and neglected landscaping due to prolonged vacancy and lack of maintenance
Causes of contamination
- Past industrial activities (manufacturing, chemical production) that released hazardous substances into the soil, groundwater, or air
- Improper storage, handling, or disposal of toxic materials (solvents, heavy metals, petroleum products)
- Accidental spills or leaks from underground storage tanks or pipelines
- Legacy contamination from historical land uses (gas stations, dry cleaners) that predate modern environmental regulations
Risks and liabilities
- Potential health risks to nearby residents and workers from exposure to contaminated soil, water, or air
- Environmental risks (groundwater contamination, soil degradation) that can spread to surrounding properties and ecosystems
- Legal liabilities for property owners, developers, and lenders associated with the cost and responsibility of cleaning up contamination
- Stigma and perception of risk that can deter investment and redevelopment, perpetuating the cycle of blight and abandonment
Brownfield redevelopment benefits
Economic benefits
- Revitalizes underutilized properties and attracts new businesses, creating jobs and increasing local tax revenue
- Leverages existing infrastructure (roads, utilities) and reduces the cost of development compared to building on greenfield sites
- Enhances property values and stimulates economic activity in surrounding neighborhoods
- Promotes infill development and curbs urban sprawl, reducing the cost of providing public services (police, fire, schools)
Social benefits
- Removes blight and improves the aesthetic appearance of communities, fostering a sense of pride and social cohesion
- Provides opportunities for affordable housing, community facilities (parks, schools), and other amenities that improve quality of life
- Addresses environmental justice concerns by cleaning up contamination in disadvantaged communities that have historically borne a disproportionate burden of pollution
- Preserves cultural heritage by adaptively reusing historic buildings and landmarks
Environmental benefits
- Cleans up contamination and reduces the risk of exposure to hazardous substances, protecting public health and the environment
- Conserves greenfield sites (farmland, natural habitats) by redirecting development to already disturbed land
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by promoting compact, mixed-use development that reduces vehicle miles traveled and encourages alternative modes of transportation (walking, biking, transit)
- Restores degraded ecosystems and provides opportunities for (stormwater management, urban forestry)
Brownfield remediation process
Site assessment and investigation
- (ESA) to identify potential contamination based on historical land use, records review, and site inspection
- Phase II ESA to confirm the presence and extent of contamination through soil, groundwater, and air sampling and laboratory analysis
- Risk assessment to evaluate the potential health and environmental risks posed by the contamination and determine cleanup goals
- Remedial investigation to characterize the nature and extent of contamination and develop a conceptual site model
Remediation strategies and techniques
- Excavation and off-site disposal of contaminated soil
- In-situ treatment (, chemical oxidation) to break down contaminants in place
- Capping and containment to isolate contamination and prevent exposure
- Pump-and-treat systems to extract and treat contaminated groundwater
- Institutional controls (deed restrictions, zoning) to limit land use and prevent exposure
Monitoring and long-term management
- Post-remediation monitoring to ensure that cleanup goals have been met and contamination does not rebound
- Long-term monitoring to track the effectiveness of remediation over time and identify any new or residual contamination
- Maintenance of engineering controls (caps, barriers) and institutional controls to ensure their continued effectiveness
- Periodic reviews and updates to the remediation plan based on changing site conditions, regulatory requirements, or new technologies
Stakeholder involvement
Role of government agencies
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides funding, technical assistance, and oversight for brownfield assessment and cleanup through the Brownfields Program
- State environmental agencies (DEQ, DEC) administer their own brownfield programs and regulations, often in partnership with the EPA
- Local governments (cities, counties) play a key role in identifying and prioritizing brownfield sites, engaging the community, and facilitating redevelopment
Community engagement and participation
- Involving the community early and often in the brownfield redevelopment process to build trust, gather input, and ensure that the project meets local needs and priorities
- Conducting public meetings, workshops, and charrettes to educate the community about the project and solicit feedback
- Establishing community advisory committees or task forces to provide ongoing input and oversight throughout the redevelopment process
- Providing language translation and other accommodations to ensure that all members of the community can participate
Public-private partnerships
- Collaboration between government agencies, private developers, and community organizations to leverage resources and expertise for brownfield redevelopment
- Use of public funding (grants, loans, tax incentives) to attract private investment and reduce the financial risk of redevelopment
- Creation of special purpose entities (land banks, redevelopment authorities) to acquire, clean up, and convey brownfield properties to private developers
- Negotiation of community benefits agreements (local hiring, affordable housing) to ensure that the project benefits the surrounding community
Financing brownfield remediation
Government funding and incentives
- EPA Brownfields Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund, and Cleanup (ARC) grants to fund site assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment planning
- HUD Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) grants to fund infrastructure improvements and other redevelopment activities
- Tax increment financing (TIF) to capture the increased property tax revenue generated by redevelopment to fund cleanup and infrastructure costs
- State and local , abatements, and other incentives to encourage private investment in brownfield redevelopment
Private sector investment
- Use of private equity, debt, and other forms of capital to finance brownfield redevelopment projects
- Creation of public-private partnerships (PPPs) to share the risk and reward of redevelopment between government and private entities
- Use of environmental insurance products to mitigate the financial risk of cleanup and liability
- Leveraging of philanthropic and impact investment capital to support brownfield redevelopment in underserved communities
Innovative financing mechanisms
- Brownfield redevelopment authorities and land banks that can acquire, clean up, and convey properties to private developers
- Environmental remediation trusts that can hold and manage contaminated properties and funds for cleanup
- Green banks and other specialized financial institutions that can provide low-cost financing for sustainable remediation and redevelopment projects
- Crowdfunding and other alternative financing mechanisms that can engage the community and attract small-scale investors
Sustainable remediation approaches
Green remediation technologies
- Bioremediation using microorganisms to break down contaminants in soil and groundwater
- using plants to absorb and degrade contaminants
- Permeable reactive barriers that use reactive materials (zero-valent iron) to treat contaminated groundwater in situ
- Soil vapor extraction and air sparging to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from soil and groundwater
Integrating renewable energy
- Use of solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy technologies to power remediation systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Incorporation of geothermal heating and cooling systems into redevelopment projects to reduce energy costs and carbon footprint
- Use of landfill gas capture and utilization systems to generate electricity and reduce methane emissions from brownfield sites
Eco-friendly site design and landscaping
- Incorporation of green infrastructure (rain gardens, bioswales) to manage stormwater runoff and reduce the need for traditional gray infrastructure
- Use of native plants and xeriscaping to reduce water consumption and maintenance costs
- Creation of urban forests, community gardens, and other green spaces that provide ecosystem services and improve quality of life
- Adaptive reuse of existing buildings and materials to reduce waste and embodied carbon
Brownfield redevelopment case studies
Successful urban revitalization projects
- Atlantic Station in Atlanta, Georgia: a former steel mill site transformed into a vibrant mixed-use development with retail, office, residential, and green space
- Stapleton Airport in Denver, Colorado: a former airport site redeveloped into a sustainable mixed-use community with over 12,000 homes and 3 million square feet of commercial space
- The High Line in New York City: a former elevated rail line converted into a popular linear park and catalyst for redevelopment in the surrounding neighborhoods
Lessons learned and best practices
- Importance of early and ongoing community engagement to build trust and ensure that the project meets local needs and priorities
- Value of public-private partnerships in leveraging resources and expertise for complex redevelopment projects
- Need for a comprehensive and integrated approach that addresses environmental, economic, and social factors in a holistic manner
- Significance of incorporating sustainability and resilience into brownfield redevelopment to create long-term value and mitigate future risks
Overcoming challenges and obstacles
- Addressing liability concerns and regulatory barriers that can deter private investment and redevelopment
- Securing adequate funding and financing for assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment activities
- Navigating complex stakeholder relationships and competing interests among government agencies, developers, and community groups
- Dealing with technical challenges (complex hydrogeology, novel contaminants) that can increase the cost and complexity of remediation
Legal and regulatory framework
Federal and state brownfield laws
- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) that provide a framework for cleaning up contaminated sites and assigning liability
- Small Business Liability Relief and that provides funding and liability protections for brownfield assessment and cleanup
- State voluntary cleanup programs (VCPs) that offer streamlined oversight and liability protections for brownfield redevelopment
- State and local land use and zoning laws that can facilitate or hinder brownfield redevelopment
Liability protection for developers
- Bona fide prospective purchaser (BFPP) defense that provides liability protection for entities that acquire contaminated property after January 11, 2002 and meet certain criteria
- Innocent landowner defense that provides liability protection for entities that acquire contaminated property without knowledge of the contamination and meet certain criteria
- Contiguous property owner defense that provides liability protection for entities that own property that is contaminated by a neighboring site
- Indemnification agreements and environmental insurance products that can transfer liability from the developer to a third party
Cleanup standards and requirements
- Risk-based corrective action (RBCA) that sets cleanup standards based on the intended land use and potential exposure pathways
- Site-specific cleanup standards that are developed based on the unique characteristics and risks of the site
- Background standards that are based on the naturally occurring levels of contaminants in the area
- Institutional controls (deed restrictions, zoning) that can limit land use and prevent exposure in lieu of more extensive cleanup
Future of brownfield remediation
Emerging technologies and innovations
- Nanotechnology and other advanced materials that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of remediation
- Genetic engineering and synthetic biology that can create new microorganisms and enzymes for bioremediation
- Robotics and automation that can reduce the cost and risk of site assessment and cleanup activities
- Big data and predictive analytics that can optimize site characterization, remediation design, and long-term monitoring
Adapting to climate change impacts
- Incorporating climate resilience and adaptation into brownfield redevelopment to mitigate the risks of sea level rise, flooding, and other climate impacts
- Using green infrastructure and nature-based solutions to manage stormwater, reduce heat island effects, and provide other ecosystem services
- Developing emergency response and contingency plans to address the potential release of contaminants during extreme weather events
- Leveraging brownfield redevelopment as an opportunity to build community resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change
Promoting equitable development outcomes
- Prioritizing brownfield redevelopment in disadvantaged communities that have been disproportionately impacted by environmental contamination and economic disinvestment
- Engaging the community in the planning and decision-making process to ensure that the project meets local needs and priorities
- Providing job training, local hiring, and other community benefits to ensure that the economic gains of redevelopment are shared equitably
- Incorporating affordable housing, community facilities, and other amenities that promote social equity and inclusion
Key Terms to Review (18)
Abandoned industrial sites: Abandoned industrial sites refer to former manufacturing or processing facilities that have been left unused and neglected, often resulting in environmental hazards and economic decline. These sites are typically characterized by their dilapidated structures and potential contamination from previous industrial activities. The presence of these sites poses challenges for urban development and community revitalization, but they also present opportunities for remediation and redevelopment.
Bioremediation: Bioremediation is a natural process that uses living organisms, often microorganisms, to remove or neutralize contaminants from soil and water. This technique harnesses the ability of these organisms to break down hazardous substances, making them less harmful to the environment and human health. By employing bioremediation, contaminated sites can be restored more sustainably compared to traditional remediation methods, which often involve chemical treatments or excavation.
Brownfields Revitalization Act: The Brownfields Revitalization Act is a federal law aimed at facilitating the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites, which are properties that may be contaminated due to previous industrial or commercial use. This act provides funding and resources to local governments and communities to assess, remediate, and repurpose these underutilized lands, ultimately promoting environmental protection, public health, and economic development.
Community-based planning: Community-based planning is an approach to urban planning that actively involves local residents in the decision-making process, ensuring that their needs, preferences, and values are reflected in the development of their communities. This participatory method promotes collaboration between community members, local governments, and other stakeholders, leading to more equitable and sustainable urban environments. It emphasizes inclusivity, empowering marginalized voices and fostering a sense of ownership over community development initiatives.
Contaminated land: Contaminated land refers to areas that have been polluted by hazardous substances, often as a result of industrial activities, waste disposal, or agricultural practices. This pollution can pose significant risks to human health and the environment, making remediation efforts essential for safe redevelopment and land use.
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a U.S. governmental agency responsible for regulating and enforcing national standards for environmental protection. Its primary mission is to protect human health and the environment by creating regulations based on laws passed by Congress, focusing on air and water quality, hazardous waste management, and chemical safety. The EPA plays a crucial role in brownfield remediation efforts, which involve cleaning up contaminated properties to promote redevelopment and protect communities from pollution.
Grants for cleanup: Grants for cleanup refer to financial assistance provided by government agencies or organizations to facilitate the remediation of contaminated sites, particularly brownfields. These grants aim to support the cleanup process by covering costs associated with environmental assessment, removal of hazardous materials, and restoring the land for safe use. By providing these funds, communities can revitalize contaminated areas, improve public health, and promote sustainable development.
Green infrastructure: Green infrastructure refers to a network of natural and semi-natural systems designed to manage stormwater, enhance urban biodiversity, and improve overall environmental health. This approach integrates green spaces, such as parks and green roofs, into urban planning to support ecosystem functions while providing recreational and aesthetic benefits to communities.
Local Redevelopment Authorities: Local redevelopment authorities are government agencies created to facilitate the revitalization and redevelopment of underutilized or contaminated properties within a community. These authorities play a crucial role in transforming blighted areas, particularly brownfields, into functional spaces that contribute to economic growth and community well-being. By coordinating efforts between various stakeholders, including local governments, businesses, and residents, they help ensure sustainable and effective redevelopment practices.
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment: A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is a process used to identify potential environmental contamination on a property, focusing on past and present uses that could pose risks to human health or the environment. This assessment is crucial in brownfield remediation, as it helps stakeholders determine if further investigation or cleanup is necessary before redevelopment can take place. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of any environmental liabilities associated with a site, allowing for informed decision-making regarding future land use.
Phase II Environmental Site Assessment: A Phase II Environmental Site Assessment is a comprehensive investigation that focuses on evaluating potential contamination at a property identified during a Phase I assessment. This process involves collecting and analyzing soil, groundwater, and other environmental samples to determine the presence and extent of hazardous substances. The results of this assessment are crucial for planning remediation strategies and ensuring safety for future use of the site.
Phytoremediation: Phytoremediation is a bioremediation technology that uses plants to remove, transfer, stabilize, or destroy contaminants in soil and water. This approach leverages the natural processes of plants to extract pollutants, making it a sustainable method for cleaning up contaminated environments, particularly brownfields. By integrating phytoremediation with urban planning, communities can enhance soil quality and reclaim degraded lands while promoting biodiversity.
Public health risks: Public health risks refer to potential threats that can adversely affect the health and well-being of populations. These risks often arise from environmental factors, such as pollution or exposure to hazardous substances, and can lead to serious health issues within communities. Understanding these risks is crucial for implementing effective strategies to protect public health, especially in areas undergoing redevelopment or remediation.
Stakeholder involvement: Stakeholder involvement refers to the active participation of individuals or groups who have an interest or stake in a particular project or decision-making process. This concept is crucial in ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered, enhancing transparency, and fostering collaboration, which ultimately leads to more sustainable and accepted outcomes.
Superfund Program: The Superfund Program is a federal initiative established by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) in 1980 aimed at cleaning up the nation's most contaminated land and responding to environmental emergencies. This program provides funding and a legal framework for identifying, assessing, and remediating hazardous waste sites, especially those posing significant risks to human health and the environment, including brownfields.
Sustainable Redevelopment: Sustainable redevelopment refers to the process of revitalizing urban areas in a way that enhances environmental quality, social equity, and economic viability. This approach aims to transform previously developed sites, often those that are underutilized or contaminated, into vibrant spaces that meet current community needs while minimizing negative impacts on the environment. By focusing on long-term sustainability, this practice seeks to balance the demands of urban growth with the preservation of natural resources and community well-being.
Tax Credits: Tax credits are financial incentives that reduce the amount of tax owed by individuals or businesses, effectively lowering their tax burden. They can be non-refundable or refundable, allowing taxpayers to either lower their taxes to zero or receive a refund for any excess credits. These credits are often used to encourage investment in specific areas, like environmental sustainability and urban redevelopment.
Toxic exposure: Toxic exposure refers to the contact with harmful substances that can lead to adverse health effects, often occurring through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Understanding this concept is crucial in urban planning, particularly when addressing contaminated sites like brownfields, where previous industrial activities may have released hazardous materials into the environment, posing risks to public health and safety.