Embracing Vapor Barriers in Brownfield Redevelopment: A Vital Step Towards Environmental Safety
Embracing Vapor Barriers in Brownfield Redevelopment: A Vital Step Towards Environmental Safety
By: Robert Carvalho, P.G. CPG-10588, CEO/President at EAI, Inc.
and member of AEG and the New York - Philadelphia Chapter
Caption: Workers installing a vapor barrier
As environmental geologists and engineers, we must champion innovative solutions that not only revitalize our communities but also safeguard public health and the environment. In recent years, the surge in brownfield redevelopment across the nation has underscored the pressing need for effective measures to address environmental contamination. Among these measures, the integration of vapor barriers stands out as a cornerstone of responsible and sustainable redevelopment practices.
Brownfields and landfills, once neglected due to environmental concerns, are now ripe for transformation into vibrant spaces that serve our communities. However, the specter of environmental contamination looms large over these sites, posing risks to human health and hindering redevelopment efforts. Recognizing this challenge, environmental geologists, developers, government agencies, and contractors, have embraced vapor barriers as a crucial tool in mitigating the threats posed by vapor intrusion.
Traditionally, brownfield sites underwent rigorous cleanup efforts before redevelopment commenced. However, with advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of environmental risks, the adoption of vapor barriers has emerged as a proactive strategy to prevent hazardous vapors from infiltrating buildings constructed on contaminated soil or groundwater. Vapor barriers add an additional layer of protection for a variety of sites, whether former oil fields or landfills. These barriers are often designed in parallel with a sub-slab depressurization system, intended to help route any sub-slab vapor to the exterior of the building.
Caption: Sub-slab vapor barrier using a ventilation system
The effectiveness of vapor barriers in safeguarding public health and mitigating environmental risks cannot be overstated. These barriers, used successfully for decades, serve as a vital line of defense, shielding occupants from harmful vapors while also reducing the long-term liability associated with brownfield redevelopment. By incorporating vapor barriers into redevelopment projects, environmental geologists are not only ensuring compliance with stringent regulations but are also fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
Moreover, the widespread adoption of vapor barriers reflects a paradigm shift towards more sustainable and responsible redevelopment practices. Across the nation, regulatory bodies such as the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation have implemented stringent guidelines to assess and mitigate the risks of vapor intrusion. This proactive approach underscores the importance of prioritizing environmental safety in all facets of brownfield redevelopment.
The success stories of projects like the Seaview Mall in Ocean Township, New Jersey, where methane levels were significantly reduced through the implementation of vapor barriers, serve as compelling evidence of the efficacy of these measures. From commercial developments to public infrastructure projects, vapor barriers have become indispensable components of remediation systems, ensuring that brownfield sites are not only revitalized but also safe for habitation.
As we look to the future of brownfield redevelopment, it is incumbent upon us, as environmental geologists, to continue advocating for the widespread adoption of vapor barriers. By prioritizing environmental safety and embracing innovative solutions, we can pave the way for sustainable development that enriches our communities while safeguarding our planet for future generations. Together, let us forge a path towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Caption: Schematic of the Florprufe vapor intrusion prevention system installed.