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Using integrated geospatial mapping and conceptual site models to guide risk-based environmental clean-up decisions.
Henry J Mayer1, Michael R Greenberg, Joanna Burger
1Rutgers University, E.J. Bloustein School of Planning & Public Policy, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA. hmayer@rci.rutgers.edu
Summary
Integrated geospatial mapping and conceptual site models help the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) identify environmental hazards and plan long-term cleanup strategies for legacy nuclear waste sites.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geospatial Analysis
- Risk Assessment
Background:
- Organizations increasingly use visual models for environmental hazard depiction.
- Tailored graphic presentations often face limitations due to data and technology constraints.
- The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) manages legacy nuclear waste at numerous sites, presenting unique mapping challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the development and application of integrated geospatial mapping and conceptual site models.
- To identify environmental hazards at DOE sites.
- To evaluate alternative long-term environmental cleanup strategies.
Main Methods:
- Development of integrated geospatial mapping techniques.
- Creation of conceptual site models.
- Application of these tools to DOE sites across the United States.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated effectiveness of integrated geospatial mapping and conceptual site models for hazard identification.
- Provided a framework for evaluating diverse long-term environmental cleanup strategies.
- Highlighted the applicability to other large-scale contaminated sites.
Conclusions:
- Integrated geospatial mapping and conceptual site models are crucial for managing complex environmental hazards at DOE sites.
- This approach offers a scalable solution for risk assessment and remediation planning.
- Similar methodologies can benefit other responsible parties managing contaminated sites.