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Is Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) actually Remediation?

Yes, is the short and simple answer, Why? well read on. This question is often asked because the explanation of MNA is to monitor the…

Is Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) actually Remediation?

Yes, is the short and simple answer, Why? well read on.

This question is often asked because the explanation of MNA is to monitor the concentrations of contaminants as they (hopefully) decrease. MNA is usually carried out on hydrocarbons in groundwater, a scenario where natural processes reduce concentrations.

MNA can be an extensive and complicated process, monitoring groundwater concentrations can involve regular site visits and sampling rounds over several years with in depth analysis and modelling of the data accrued.  In addition to this monitoring can result in detection of increasing concentrations of contaminants which can trigger a requirement for ‘active’ remediation. Increases in contaminants can result from natural processes, some by-products of attenuation are themselves contaminants e.g. Vinyl Chloride produced from the degradation of Tetrachloroethene (TCE), or from changing ground conditions such as fluctuating groundwater levels.

Great resources on MNA are available for free from regulators, check out these links below-

Environment Agency – http://bit.ly/W71pRP

Northern Irish Environment Agency – http://bit.ly/V8h47v

NICOLE – http://bit.ly/W0pMmp

Western Australia Guidance – http://bit.ly/10c676r

Enjoy.  If have any questions please do not hesitate to get in contact with us.

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