Environmental remediation is an important part of our world. A healthy environment guarantees the health and safety of all living things. This field may be overlooked by many, but it takes a controlled effort of specialized programs, ongoing education and trained personnel to keep our land and water clean.

Types of Environmental Remediation

We may be familiar with oil spills that can contaminate water and land, but there are other types of serious pollutants that can endanger our ecosystem.

1. Polluted Water beneath the Ground. Spills from nearby factories, chemicals from farming and landfills are all ways that underground water contamination can occur. These can spread disease if not properly treated.

2. Surface Water Contamination. Natural causes, such as insects and bacteria, often create a dangerous environment to those that come into contact with them.

3. Soil Contamination. Heavy metals, certain types of bacteria and hydrocarbons are a danger to our soil. It can be transferred to livestock and plants that are grown and consumed.

4. Sediment Toxins. Contaminated sediment can form on the bottom of a water body. It may be the cause of water and soil that has been affected by various toxins.

Environmental Remediation Methods

Through education and technology, methods have been created to attack the pollution caused by environmental contamination. Depending on the type of damage, specific remediation methods may be implemented.

• Chemical oxidation
• In Situ flushing
• Excavation or drudging
• Nanotechnology

Who Pays for Environmental Cleanups?

The EPA has a Superfund program earmarked for the most detrimental cleanups, like natural disasters, oil spills and environmental emergencies.

Environmental Assessments

It is not only the responsibility of the government to find and address contaminates within our environment. Property owners and potential property buyers have an obligation to insure that needed repairs are not necessary. A licensed architect or engineer can provide an environmental assessment that can uncover existing dangers to water or soil. This type of report can save lots of money in a property investment.

Education for Environmental Remediators

There are many different positions within the role of becoming an environmental remediator. Specialties include:

• Compliance Officers
• Environmental Remediation Conservation Scientists
• Environmental Conservation Engineers
• Hazardous Materials Removal Workers

Environmental remediation is an ongoing problem that requires constant monitoring. By becoming aware of all the different areas that are involved, we can help to create a better environment for generations to come.