Natural Attenuation: CERCLA, RBCAs, and the Future of Environmental Remediation

The concept of "Natural Attenuation" is that some hazardous wastes and toxic substances degrade spontaneously, without human intervention. This book focuses on the most recent data coming in from the field regarding natural attenuation rates. It examines the legal and regulatory framework that has made waste remediation so costly -- particularly liability issues regarding CERCLA -- and shows how applying knowledge about natural attenuation can lessen the ridgid requirements of mandated minimum toxicity levels.-- Summarizes the current state of CERCLA and Superfund policies, liability management, and projected remediation costs-- Presents new case studies of natural attenuation being used in site assessment, risk analysis, and eventual remediation planning-- Provides new analytical and numerical tools for establishing risk priorities and clean up needs-- Offers valuable insights into the future of remediation policy and technology -- and the increased role of attenuation as an analytical tool