Reduction of the remediation area at the former pesticide production plant located in the central-eastern part of Brazil's Northeast region, owned by the world's largest agricultural input company. Due to its operation in the 1990s, soil and groundwater were contaminated with chlorinated solvents, dioxins, and furans. Following a series of environmental investigations, the environmental liability was estimated to be in the tens of millions of Brazilian Reais, but a complete remediation plan approved by the environmental agency did not exist.
Strategy for Reducing the Remediation Area
With NewFields Brasil's involvement in the case, the following actions were implemented:
- Detailed analysis of all historical environmental data;
- Establishment of a global strategy for case closure;
- Definition of criteria for additional data collection combined with the use of cutting-edge technology;
- Transparent communication and effective negotiation with the environmental agency;
- Establishment of performance metrics aligned with the new intended use for the area;
- Adoption of sustainable and efficient intervention measures.
Results
- 70% reduction in the area to be remediated;
- 72% reduction in the costs initially projected for remediation and monitoring actions;
- Complete case closure plan fully approved by the environmental agency;
- Total treatment of contaminated groundwater and soil within the industrial plant itself.
