A brownfield is a site whose former use involved hazardous materials that can pose environmental challenges. These sites are typically found in industrial, commercial, or military zones and include closed manufacturing facilities, shut-down military bases, and abandoned gasoline stations. The presence of pollutants and contaminants at these sites often complicates efforts at redevelopment and reuse.
Types of Brownfield Sites
Manufacturing Facilities
Former industrial sites where manufacturing processes have left behind hazardous substances. These can include heavy metals, solvents, and other chemicals.
Military Bases
Decommissioned military facilities often have contamination from fuel, ammunition, and various chemicals used during their operational period.
Gasoline Stations
Abandoned gas stations typically have problems related to leaking underground storage tanks, which can contaminate soil and groundwater with petroleum products.
Federal Programs for Brownfield Redevelopment
Several federal programs aim to mitigate the environmental hazards associated with brownfield sites to make them safer for redevelopment. Notably:
Superfund
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund, is a federal program administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It focuses on cleaning up some of the nation’s most contaminated land and responding to environmental emergencies, oil spills, and natural disasters.
Brownfields Program
The EPA’s Brownfields Program provides grants and technical assistance to communities, enabling them to safely clean up and sustainably reuse brownfield sites.
Historical Context
The concept of brownfield redevelopment gained prominence in the late 20th century as urban areas across the United States and Europe began to decline, leaving behind numerous abandoned industrial sites. The realization of the potential health risks and economic opportunities spurred legislative and policy initiatives aimed at addressing and rehabilitating these areas.
Applicability and Examples
Case Study: Gas Works Park, Seattle
Gas Works Park in Seattle, Washington, is a prime example of successful brownfield redevelopment. The park is built on the site of a former gasification plant and has been restored to serve as a public recreational area while maintaining elements of its industrial past as historical artifacts.
Commercial Redevelopment
Transforming a closed factory site into a mixed-use commercial and residential area can provide significant economic benefits to communities while reducing urban sprawl.
Comparisons and Related Terms
Greenfield
A greenfield site is previously undeveloped land, such as a farm or forest, often considered for urban development.
Grayfield
A grayfield refers to economically obsolescent, outdated, and underutilized real estate assets, often found in suburban areas, such as defunct shopping malls.
FAQs
What are the environmental concerns associated with brownfield sites?
How is a brownfield site cleaned up?
What are the economic benefits of redeveloping brownfield sites?
References
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Superfund.” EPA.gov.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Brownfields and Land Revitalization.” EPA.gov.
Summary
Brownfield sites represent both challenges and opportunities. Their redevelopment can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits, transforming hazardous and abandoned lands into productive areas. Public awareness and federal programs play crucial roles in the effective cleanup and reuse of these areas, ultimately contributing to community revitalization and sustainable development.
By understanding brownfield sites, their risks, and the measures taken for their rehabilitation, communities can unlock new opportunities for growth and environmental preservation.
See also [Superfund] for more information on hazardous site cleanup efforts.
