What Are the Causes of Contamination at Brownfields Sites?
Section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) defines brownfields sites as “real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.” Almost any former property, industrial or nonindustrial, where chemicals were used, produced, or reclaimed is a potential brownfields site. Over the operational history of the site or through its current use, contamination may have resulted from use, storage, or disposal of various products or chemicals.
