Advancing Green Remediation Cleanup Practices in the Air Force

Abstract : Presentation Outline: Air Force sustainability goals and drivers, Green status in the Air Force Environmental Restoration Program (ERP), Opportunities for Green and Sustainable Remediation (GSR) in the Air Force ERP, GSR tools, GSR in Air Force contracts, and case studies of GSR technologies and approaches. Overarching goal: to protect human health and the environment. Practice of considering all environmental effects of remedy implementation and operation incorporating options to minimize the environmental footprint of a cleanup. Key elements of the GSR initiative are to minimize energy use for treatment systems, water use/impacts on water resources, material consumption/waste generation, impacts on land and the ecosystem, and eliminate or reduce air emissions. Objective: Incorporate GSR technologies as part of a holistic approach to optimize cleanup. Information is presented on the following case studies: Altus AFB, OK -- biowalls; Travis AFB, CA --a solar-powered biological/chemical source area treatment system (in situ bioreactor); Military Munitions Response Program -- increased energy efficiency, use of biodiesel, reduced propane use, installed wind turbines; 162nd Fighter Wing, Tucson, AZ -- implemented a groundwater extraction, treatment, and recharge system.