Newcastle University

Aims

The aims of this module are to provide a clear definition of contaminated land, to introduce the risk-based approach to contaminated land engendered by UK legislation, and to describe the techniques which have historically been used in the reclamation of contaminated sites in the UK, together with more recently developed alternative technologies.

The lectures in this module will first introduce contaminated land and the related “land affected by contamination” and “derelict land”. You will then be introduced to the legal framework governing contaminated land in the UK, with emphasis being placed on the recent Part IIA regime. Site investigation and risk assessment are covered next and this is followed by a review of traditional and more innovative techniques for the remediation of contaminated sites. During the module, you will take part in one numerical practical exercise using either CONSIM modelling software or the CLEA guidelines. You will also take part in a team-based coursework exercise to design a site investigation for a real contaminated land site.

Outline Of Syllabus

Introduction to contaminated land
Site investigation and risk assessment
UK Legislation
Traditional remediation techniques
Process-based remediation techniques
Bioremediation techniques
Guest lecture

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Specialist knowledge and understanding are primarily imparted via lecture classes, supported by computer-hosted reference materials and a half-day site visit to a local contaminated land site. Students are encouraged and expected to learn through independent reading and subsequent reflection. They are supported in this by the provision of an appropriate reading list. Additional learning opportunities are provided through participation in, and discussion of, a half-day visit to a contaminated land site. Key skills are practised through participation in the site-visit and through team-based project work.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The specialist knowledge and understanding imparted during this module are assessed by means of two coursework items. In the first, students (in groups of 5) undertake a group based phase 1 site investigation of a real contaminated site. In the second they produce an individual independent summary of the group work consisting of an executive summary, a conceptual model and series of model questions to inform the general public of the proposed works.