Soil degradation and pollution currently affect over 3.2 billion people (roughly 40 percent of the world’s population).
Are you worried about soil conditions in your area? If so, you may also be curious about different soil remediation methods and how they can benefit you.
Below, you’ll learn more about the importance of soil remediation, the options available, and how to see the best results from your efforts.
What Is Soil Remediation?
Soil remediation involves a collection of techniques designed to reduce the risks presented by contaminated soils (food and water pollution, indoor air pollution, etc.).
Many professionals — including those employed by an environmental services company or organization — offer soil remediation services. However, it can be hard to decide which approach is the best fit for your needs.
Signs of Contaminated Soil
It’s not always easy to tell if you need to invest in soil remediation. Here are some warning signs that indicate you’re dealing with contaminated soil:
- Discoloration
- Strong odors
- Vegetation fails to thrive
- Soil history (land has been used previously for agriculture, mining, water disposal, or gas dispensing)
To know for sure that your soil is contaminated, you must take a sample and have it tested by a certified lab.
Soil Remediation Methods
Soil remediation services come in many different forms. The following are some of the most well-known methods:
Excavation and Removal
Soil excavation and removal involve creating a cavity in the earth (excavating) and then removing the contaminated soil. It takes precision and skill to carry out this process safely and efficiently, so you must work with experts if you’re considering it.
Soil Vapor Extraction
Soil Vapor Extraction (or SVE) involves drilling an extraction well (or wells) into
contaminated soil. Equipment is then attached to the wells to create a vacuum, which pulls air and vapors through the earth and to the ground surface, where they can be treated.
Pump and Treat
The pump and treat process is designed to purify contaminated groundwater (water found in cracks between soil, sand, or rock) and ensure it moves safely to other areas. The groundwater is pumped from wells and taken to a treatment system designed to remove contaminants during this treatment method.
Thermal Treatment
The thermal treatment process heats contaminated soil (and sometimes the nearby groundwater). The heat vaporizes chemicals and water, converting them to gases, which are easier to remove from the earth.
Bioremediation
Bioremediation utilizes specific microbes to clean contaminated soil and groundwater. These microbes remove contaminants from the earth and use them as food and energy.
Chemical Injection
The chemical injection process uses non-toxic, water-soluble chemicals (such as potassium salts or ammonium ions) to hinder soil’s water absorption capabilities and prevent contamination. It also prevents soil swelling, which can contribute to foundation disruption.
Invest in Soil Remediation Today
Do you have concerns about the quality of the soil on your property? If so, one (or more) of the soil remediation methods discussed above could help.
Contact a soil remediation expert today to learn more about your options.
