The Hidden Threat Beneath Our Feet: Urban Soil Contamination

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Urban soil quality and contamination - Solution

Site Assessment And Testing

We conduct comprehensive evaluations of urban soils to identify contamination levels and assess overall quality, providing a foundation for safe land use and remediation.

  • Perform detailed soil sampling and laboratory analysis for heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and other common urban pollutants.
  • Utilize geospatial mapping to visualize contamination hotspots and assess risks to human health and the environment.

Remediation Strategy Development

We design and implement tailored plans to clean up contaminated urban soils, restoring land for safe residential, recreational, or commercial use.

  • Recommend and manage appropriate remediation techniques such as phytoremediation, soil washing, or capping based on site-specific conditions.
  • Ensure all strategies comply with local, state, and federal environmental regulations and guidelines.

Community Education And Engagement

We empower local communities by providing knowledge and resources to understand soil quality issues and participate in stewardship activities.

  • Host workshops and distribute materials on safe urban gardening practices and recognizing potential contamination.
  • Facilitate community-led monitoring programs to foster long-term environmental awareness and protection.
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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

A: Urban soils can contain contaminants like lead, arsenic, and PAHs from past industrial use, paint, or vehicle emissions. To reduce risks, get your soil tested, use raised beds with clean soil, maintain a soil pH above 6.5 to reduce plant uptake of lead, and thoroughly wash all produce.

A: Common sources include lead from old paint and leaded gasoline, arsenic from treated lumber and industrial sites, and cadmium from batteries and coatings. Hotspots are often found near old houses, busy roads, former industrial sites (brownfields), and in areas with historic fill material.

A: While direct ingestion (especially for children) is a primary concern, other pathways exist. Contaminants can be inhaled as dust, absorbed through the skin, or taken up by plants. Contaminated soil can also leach into groundwater or be tracked into homes, contributing to indoor dust.