Measuring future liability of Ohio brownfields as a function of site cleanup levels

Abstract

Environmental liability of brownfields can be predicted by developing a model based on long-term effectiveness of proposed site cleanups. Remedial action technologies used in the cleanups reduce the quantity and hazardous charcteristics of residual contaminants after treatment, thus lowering future liability. Proposed technologies were ranked on the basis of long-term effectiveness. Combinations of technologies, called alternatives, were ranked by averaging assigned liability values for the group of technologies for each site. Based on the projections from the Records of Decision (RODs): the alternatives to be used, the costs for cleanup, and the EPA mandated cancer risk reduction at each Superfund site, a plot and trend analysis defined a predictive model showing the relationship between the expenditure of dollars for cleanup, health risk reduction, and future liability. This model will help owners of contaminated property and developers to predict the expected costs of cleanup, and be encouraged to purchase, improve and develop brownfields.