In my last article I discussed some of the research requirements for conducting a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), in particular the use of environmental databases to confirm the history and development of a particular property, and to assist in determining potential environmental concerns that may impact the Site. One of the research tools I employ for every Phase 1 ESA I undertake is an environmental database report from Environmental Risk Information Services (ERIS). Continue reading “Data Overload – Part 2”
Data Overload – Part 1
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One of the most important tasks for any consultant working on a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is the research component. The primary purpose of the ESA is to determine actual or potential sources of environmental concern that may be associated with the subject Site, as well as surrounding and nearby properties; which typically involves looking at a lot of environmental databases. Sufficient relevant data must be reviewed to confirm the site and area history, to assess current and historical activities, and to use this data to evaluate potential environmental issues. Continue reading “Data Overload – Part 1”
Writing a Better Phase One ESA
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In one of my last posts I wrote about some common pitfalls encountered when conducting a Phase One Environmental Site Assessment (ESA). This article will discuss some of the inherent difficulties in interpreting and reporting the ESA findings. Although my comments are directed mainly to ESA practitioners, I hope they will also be useful for the end users of these reports. Continue reading “Writing a Better Phase One ESA”
Conducting a Better Phase I ESA
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Over the last 30 years of consulting I have reviewed a lot of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) reports for a variety of purposes, including: due diligence, peer review, and for AESAC members seeking accreditation as a Certified Environmental Site Assessor (CESA). The majority of these reports have been satisfactory; a few have been superb, and a small number were of extremely poor quality. The worst offenders usually related to an improperly scoped project and/or poorly conducted research. As such, I thought a few suggestions for practitioners to conduct better Phase I ESAs would be helpful. Continue reading “Conducting a Better Phase I ESA”
