Managing contaminated sites using MNA & NSZD

Managing contaminated sites using MNA & NSZD

*** Please be aware that attendance in this course requires prior completion of the Developing Advanced Conceptual Models for Contaminated Sites course.***

Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) and Natural Source Zone Depletion (NSZD) are concepts receiving increasing attention in the UK as stakeholders seek sustainable ways to remediate contaminated sites while meeting key performance indicators. These terms describe the assessment of natural attenuation in source zones and groundwater plumes and its application to the evaluation and remediation of contaminated sites, that are captured in technical guidance published by CL:AIRE.

This course is Day 2 in a two-part series that aims advance knowledge and provide practical advice to assess the efficacy of natural attenuation, evaluating MNA or NSZD as a standalone, parallel or transitional option compared to remediation alternatives, and implementing monitoring-based risk management programmes. Sessions will cover the following topics:

• Decision making processes to assess MNA or NSZD viability, including transition assessment
• Multiple lines of evidence approach, including methods of assessment and predictive modelling
• Application of advanced methods to assess degradative processes
  • Compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) and related techniques
  • Molecular biological tools (MBTs)
• Characterising NSZD and monitoring approaches
• Estimating NSZD rates
• Performance monitoring strategies to close corrective action

The sessions will be interactive and offer a range of opportunities for participation.