Minimise harm to the environment with bioremediation

EnviroServ’s industrial services manager, Henco Swart, says two types of soil remediation are possible, namely in-situ – the treatment of contaminated soil where it lies – and ex-situ, where it is excavated and taken to a suitable area for treatment.

“The treatment method is the same for both – application of bioremediation agents and nutrients to the soil, which is watered to the correct level and aerated to introduce oxygen, before being monitored as the good bacteria grow,” Swart explains.

“We then maintain a healthy environment for these good bacteria to do their job of reducing contamination. However, remediation is not always possible, and the length of time it takes to achieve the desired results depends on the level and type of contamination.”

The key question is, once the desired level of remediation is achieved, can the remediated soil be reintroduced to the area where it came from? In this respect, successful remediation can be confirmed through verification analysis at an independent laboratory.

“In certain cases, remediation is costeffective due to the zero waste to landfill drive. EnviroServ has seen increasing numbers of requests to assist companies in achieving these goals, even when it is not the

Bioremediation is not always possible, and the length of time it takes to achieve the desired results depends on the level and type of contamination cheapest option. This is a win for the environment.”

Active site limitations

But Swart says soil remediation cannot be done on an active site, “as this would lead to recontamination.” In-situ remediation usually takes place in areas that can be isolated for the remediation period.

“There are legal protocols that need to be followed during remediation, which EnviroServ is well versed in. The remediation plan required for each project is determined by data collected from sources, such as a waste analysis and a detailed assessment of the contaminated area,” Swart concludes.

For expert advice and assistance visit www.enviroserv.co.za.

The bioremediation process uses living organisms, like microbes and bacteria, to remove contaminants from the affected soil