AECOM
PHASE ONE: RESEARCH AND PRIORITIES
POLICY AUDIT TOPIC:
ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION AND HEALTH
AECOM
PHASE ONE: RESEARCH AND PRIORITIES
AUDIT ORGANIZATION
ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION AND HEALTH
OBJECTIVES AND PRIORITIES
OBJECTIVES
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
SYNERGIES
METHODOLOGY
APPROACH
DATA COLLECTION SOURCES
EXISTING CONDITIONS AND TRENDS
POLICIES/PLANNING INITIATIVES
EXISTING CONDITIONS
DATA RELATIONSHIPS / FINDINGS
PRECEDENTS AND BENCHMARKS
REMEDIATION PRECEDENTS
PRELIMINARY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS
OPPORTUNITIES / CHALLENGES
THEMATIC DEVELOPMENT
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
2
2.1
2.2
3
3.1
3.2
3.3
4
4.1
5
5.1
5.2
AECOM
1.1 Overview
1. INTRODUCTION
The remediation policy audit and resulting opportunities and challenges are geared to addressing the following • Protecting against environmental hazards • Promoting healthy behaviors This approach reflects a paradigm of public health embraced by the City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion—that the four inter‐related social determinants of Education, Economics, Environment and Ethnicity strongly influence community and individual health outcomes.2. OBJECTIVES AND PRIORITIES
remediation should focus on building the social, economic and physical health of the community. The goal of remediation is to: • define a methodology to analyze and assess environmental health threats • develop criteria for prioritizing the clean‐up of sites • identify a suite of available remediation tools based on the type of threat faced and site conditions • support an overall framework to guide future land use policy decisions regarding industrial preservation, land remediation, and open space conversion
3. METHODOLOGY
The final desired outcome of this policy audit is to link targeted areas of the city to an appropriate suite of intervention tools. These interventions, as described later, can involve the physical clean up of specific sites, overall policy efforts to reconfigure land, open space and natural systems, or policies to promote alternative technologies and infrastructure systems. The methodology addresses four questions: 1. Is there a comparatively poor health outcome for city residents? 2. What is the spatial pattern of the impacts? 3. Is there disproportionate exposure to an environmental health hazard? 4. What are the appropriate environmental interventions?4. EXISTING CONDITIONS +
TRENDS
A review of available data and studies indicate strong spatial relationships between adverse health outcomes in the city and soil and air quality conditions, particularly in Southwest Detroit and neighborhoods on the far Eastside or near the CBD. Issues include high rates of respiratory illnesses such as asthma and elevated lead levels in children. Remediation in the city also tends to be driven by development interest or the specific incidence of a toxic release or illness. This traditional approach limits opportunities to clean up areas of the city with limited redevelopment potential.5. PRELIMINARY FINDINGS +
CONCLUSIONS
Conventional brownfield clean‐up, where tainted soils are removed and disposed of in toxic waste facilities, is costly and generally requires state and federal subsidies and strong economic development potential to justify. By reducing clean up costs by approximately 50 to 80 percent compared to conventional treatment, alternative techniques, such as phytoremediation, can increase the viability of remediation at sites that lack short‐term redevelopment potential Other intervention strategies to reduce exposure to environmental hazards and improve health outcomes include: • food security promotion through urban agriculture • healthy home interventions (lead‐free homes or homes with clean indoor air quality) • access to recreation and walking • reductions in vehicle emissions through cleaner fuels or alternative mobility options • use of state‐of‐the‐art filters to catch pollutants from industry emissions • alternative solid waste disposal strategy with a focus on waste reduction, product reuse, recycling, landfill (short‐term option) and sustainable material managementAECOM
1.1 Objectives
REMEDIATION SEEKS TO UNDERSTAND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
FACTORS IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY HEALTH.
Environment
Education
Economics
Ethnicity
SOURCE : Detroit Health and Wellness Department
THE FOUR “Es” PARADIGM
As a discipline, public health revolves around a series of policies and actions designed to: • Protect against environmental hazards • Promote healthy behaviors • Prevent epidemics and the spread of disease • Prevent injuries • Respond to disasters • Assure the quality and accessibility of health care The remediation policy audit and resulting opportunities and challenges are geared to addressing the following • Protecting against environmental hazards • Promoting healthy behaviors This approach reflects a paradigm of public health embraced by the City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion—that the four inter‐related social determinants of Education, Economics, Environment and Ethnicity strongly influence community and individual health outcomes.
AECOM
1.1 Objectives
THE GOAL OF REMEDIATION IS TO IDENTIFY A SET OF STRATEGIES TO
PROVIDE A CONTEXT FOR GOOD HEALTH—ESPECIALLY CLEAN LAND, AIR
AND WATER.
THE LEGACY OF INDUSTRIAL
ACTIVITY—COMBINED WITH
OTHER SOCIAL AND
ECONOMIC FACTORS—HAS
RESULTED IN SIGNIFICANT
BROWNFIELD SITES
THROUGHOUT THE CITY OF
DETROIT
. The Environmental Protection Agency defines brownfields as vacant or underused industrial and commercial facilities where real or perceived environmental contamination hinders future redevelopment of the site. These sites can pose health hazards to nearby residents and also discourage community redevelopment and reinvestment. SOURCE: AECOMAECOM
PROXIMITY TO BROWNFIELD SITES IS A
HEALTH RISK.
While many factors affect the health of City of Detroit residents, analysis of historic and current land uses indicates that proximity to brownfield sites and major environmental pollution sources raises significant environmental justice concerns in the City of Detroit. Along with brownfields, nearby active point source polluters or cumulative exposure to irritants in the environment can compromise public health and create disproportionately negative impacts for some neighborhoods in the city. The goal of remediation is to: • define a methodology to analyze and assess environmental health threats • develop criteria for prioritizing the clean‐up of sites • identify a suite of available remediation tools based on the type of threat faced and site conditions • support an overall framework to guide future land use policy decisions regarding industrial preservation, land remediation, and open space conversion SOURCE : AECOM Houses in close proximity to industrial uses are common in Southwest DetroitAECOM
1.2 Guiding Principles
GOALS OF STAKEHOLDER ORGANIZATIONS VARY FROM SITE-SPECIFIC
REMEDIATION TO BROADER SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CAPACITY-BUILDING
THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL REFORM.
SOUTHWEST DETROIT
ENVIRONMENTAL VISION:
• improve the environment and strengthen the economy of Southwest Detroit • promote community organizing, advocacy, education, and redevelopment efforts with a focus on addressing air quality, abandoned buildings, illegal dumping, transportation, recycling, and land useDETROITERS WORKING FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
(DWEJ):
• address the disproportionate burdens faced by people of color and low‐income residents in environmentally distressed neighborhoods • empower individuals, communities and community organizations to educate, advocate and organize for cleaner, healthier communities and environments • promote economic alternatives which would contribute to the development of environmentally safe livelihoodsREMEDIATION OFTEN
EMBRACES BROADER SOCIAL
AND ECONOMIC JUSTICE
ISSUES.
Various state, county and city agencies, as well as community groups actively advocate for environmental interventions to improve public health outcomes for Detroit residents. Their goals range from targeted site remediation to spur economic development to the leveraging of environmental justice as a platform to promote broader social and economic equality for residents. SOURCE: Detroiters Working For Environmental Justice, Southwest Detroit Environmental VisionAECOM
1.2 Guiding Principles
GOALS OF STAKEHOLDER ORGANIZATIONS VARY FROM SITE-SPECIFIC
REMEDIATION TO BROADER SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CAPACITY-BUILDING
THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL REFORM.
MICHIGAN ENVIRONMENTAL
COUNCIL PRIORITIES:
• implement the state’s environmental justice plan • promote fairness and equality in the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws • plan a transition from the trash burning incinerator in Detroit to a plan that more adequately protects residents’ health through recycling and waste reduction • assist in turning contaminated brownfields into green economic development opportunities • support enlightened food policies that help farmers and grocers to provide residents with access to local foods • promote parks and other safe, healthy open spaces to help keep local air and water clean and make neighborhoods attractiveDETROIT DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
PROMOTION:
• promote healthy and safe lifestyles and environments for children, families and communities of the City of DetroitDETROIT BROWNFIELD
REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
(DBRA):
• promote the revitalization of environmentally distressed and blighted areasDETROIT DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS:
• conserve and protect the natural resources of the City of Detroit • promote improved social and economic conditions • protect limited environmental resources • encourage and promote sustainable economic development SOURCE: Detroit Health and Wellness, Detroit Department Of Environmental Affairs, Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Michigan Environmental CouncilAECOM
REMEDIATION SHOULD WORK IN
CONCERT WITH OTHER PLAN INITIATIVES
TO IMPROVE THE ECONOMY AND BUILD
SOCIAL CAPACITY, AS WELL AS CLEAN THE
ENVIRONMENT.
Based on a synthesis of stakeholder goals and priorities, as well as ongoing concerns over public health inequities, remediation should focus on building the social, economic and physical health of the community. This philosophy is shown in the diagram on the left developed by Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice. SOURCE : Detroiters Working for Environmental JusticeAdvocacy
Education
Economic
Development
AECOM DECEMBER 16, 2010 SOURCE : Synergy Matrix
1.3
Plan Elements Neighborhoods Open Space/Ecology/Urban Ag Environmental Remediation
Land Use/Zoning Compatible uses Open space as organizing framework Neighborhoods Neighborhood anchors; access to healthy lifestyle choices Public health interventions through site remediation Open Space/Ecology/Urban Ag Park and rec uses tailored to the neighborhoods Environmental Remediation Efficient reuse of land and the built environment. Dealing with effects of demolition. Transportation Access to multiple modes of transportation; walkability Non‐motorized mobility options Infrastructure Access to utilities; condition of the public right‐of‐way Green infrastructure Cleaner technologies; Green remediation Public Services Public safety, neighborhood services Maintenance; public/ private partnerships Urban Form/Identity Economic Development Small businesses, large employers Land banking and re‐use strategies; green energy production Land banking & re‐use strategies; Site remediation; Remediation training
1.3 Synergies
REMEDIATION CAN COMPLEMENT AND SUPPORT OTHER PLAN RESOURCE
AREAS, PARTICULARLY OPEN SPACE AND URBAN AGRICULTURE, AS WELL AS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
AECOM The analysis begins with a general inquiry shown to the left. The following slides document how each of these questions can be addressed through data collection and spatial mapping. The final desired outcome of this policy audit is to link targeted areas of the city to an appropriate suite of intervention tools. These interventions, as described later, can involve the physical clean up of specific sites, overall policy efforts to reconfigure land, open space and natural systems, or policies to promote alternative technologies and infrastructure systems. SOURCE : AECOM
Is there a comparatively poor
health outcome for city
residents?
What is the spatial pattern of
the impacts?
Is there disproportionate
exposure to an environmental
health hazard?
What are the appropriate
environmental interventions?
2.1 Approach
REMEDIATION SHOULD ADDRESS THE BROADER QUESTION: HOW DO WE
AECOM
POOR HEALTH PROFILES CAN INDICATE
THE POSSIBLE EXPOSURE OF CITY
RESIDENTS TO ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS.
The analysis relies on various health indicators to determine if City of Detroit residents experience poor health outcomes relative to other parts of the metropolitan region or state. A health indicator is a characteristic of an individual or population that can be measured and used to describe one or more aspects of health. The indicators shown to the left were chosen because these illnesses often result from overall environmental conditions and the social and physical settings in which individuals live. SOURCE : AECOM
• Asthma rates/respiratory
illness rates
• Elevated lead levels in
blood
• Diabetes rates
• Heart disease rates
Is there a
comparatively
poor health
outcome for
city residents?
AECOM
SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF
NEIGHBORHOOD-LEVEL HEALTH DATA HIGHLIGHTS THE
UNUSALLY HIGH INCIDENCE OF ILLNESSES.
The analysis maps illness rates and mortality rates by the smallest, relevant available unit of spatial analysis. The City of Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion has multi‐level health data available at the city‐wide, zip code, neighborhood, and individual level. The maps on the following slides show several key health outcomes by zip code to illustrate general patterns. More refined analysis can include “hot spot” mapping of individual cases or block group data. SOURCE : AECOM
• Neighborhood‐
level (zip code or
block group)
mapping of illness
and mortality
rates
What is
the
spatial
pattern
of the
impacts?
AECOM
MAPPING NEIGHBORHOOD-LEVEL HEALTH
DATA ALONG WITH HISTORIC AND EXISTING
LAND USES COULD HIGHLIGHT POTENTIAL
LINKS BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
HAZARDS AND ILLNESSES.
The analysis overlays health indicator data with possible sources of environmental hazards to illustrate if there are spatial relationships between illness rates and land uses. Sources of environmental pollution can include historic industrial activity, such as smelters, current facilities with known toxic releases, brownfield sites that could contain hazardous conditions, and roadways with major truck traffic. It should be noted that the proximity of certain areas to brownfield sites or known point source polluters does not imply a definitive causal relationship. The maps are meant to illustrate general patterns and to help guide the analysis toward those areas that could require more study and assessment. The illnesses analyzed also often have other social and economic causes, such as unhealthy lifestyle choices and lack of access to good food and fitness options. These related issues are addressed as part of the ecology and urban agriculture sections. SOURCE : AECOM
• Mapping of current and
historic industrial sites
and uses, and possible
pollution sources (Toxic
Release Inventory (TRI),
CERCLA/Superfund sites,
USTs), major highways,
incinerator
Is there
disproportionate
exposure to an
environmental
health hazard?
AECOM
POSSIBLE REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES VARY
FROM SITE SPECIFIC CLEAN-UP TO LESS
COSTLY, ALTERNATIVE GREEN PRACTICES.
The analysis overlays health indicator data and possible sources of environmental hazards with other land use data, including natural features, vacant lands, and viable industrial clusters and corridors. The purpose of this mapping is to begin to narrow the choice of possible remediation strategies for parts of the city that experience disproportionately poor health outcomes. Some of the strategies as described later include: • permanent protection of contaminated sites with high public health risks as part of a green belt or open space inventory • the use of green remediation and transitional land use strategies to remediate sites with lower health risks and limited short‐term economic development potential • creation of green buffers to reduce exposure from known pollution sources • use of cleaner technologies or alternative infrastructure to reduce hazardous exposure SOURCE : AECOM
• Conventional site
remediation
• Alternative green
remediation
• Open space buffers
• Cleaner technologies
• Policy changes
• Healthy community
design
What are the
appropriate
environmental
interventions?
AECOM The analysis relies on a variety of federal and state resources as listed below to develop health indicators and identify possible environmental hazards. The most effective data result from the ongoing collection and analysis efforts of local agencies within the City of Detroit. • Ongoing industrial land survey conducted as part of the Detroit Works Project • Environmental Affairs Brownfields GIS Database • Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion‐ illness and mortality rate data • Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice • Green Task Force • Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority • Sustainable Detroit • Wayne County Department of Health and Human Services • Ecology Center • Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment • Michigan Department of Community Health • US Environmental Protection Agency • Community Action Against Asthma and Healthy Environments Partnership – part of the Detroit Community‐Academic Urban Research Center (URC) • University of Michigan Brownfields study in Southwest Detroit • Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision SOURCE : Environmental Protection Agency
2.1 Data Collection Sources
HEALTH INDICATORS AND POSSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS ARE
DOCUMENTED THROUGH LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL SOURCES.
AECOM
OTHER SOCIAL, DEMOGRAPHIC , AND ECONOMIC
FACTORS THAT AFFECT COMMUNITY HEALTH.
Although exposure to specific environmental hazards acts as a major component in the disease rates analyzed earlier, these illnesses also correspond with other social, demographic, and economic factors that affect individual health. Health disparities in Detroit stem from broader causes such as: 1. Differences in socioeconomic status 2. Immediate physical surroundings 3. High concentrations of vulnerable populations with an increased likelihood of illnesses Socioeconomic context can render individuals more prone to health risks and also less able to obtain to health care once ill. Studies, for example, consistently cite the relationship between socioeconomic status and cardio‐vascular disease (CVD) and mortality. Originally more common among the affluent, CVD has gradually become more common in lower socioeconomic groups over the last 50 years. Similarly, obesity and diabetes now often correlate with lower socioeconomic status. Individuals may also be more vulnerable to cumulative health risks because of their immediate physical surroundings. The age and condition of housing and its infrastructure (specifically the age of pipes or the presence of lead‐based paint) can expose residents, particularly children, to elevated lead levels. Some Detroit neighborhoods may also have particularly high concentration of populations with an increased likelihood of illnesses or with special health care needs, such as senior citizens or children. The complexity of factors affecting individual and overall community health suggest the need for a multi‐pronged approach that addresses education, outreach, economic security, and health care access along with traditional remediation methods. SOURCE : Detroit Collaborative Design Center Housing condition and structure age can also correlate with health outcomes such as elevated lead levels in children
AECOM
DATA METRICS INCLUDE BOTH MEASURES OF
PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY.
Baseline and trend data for rates of illnesses associated with exposure to environmental toxins: • Trend data for elevated lead levels in children • Asthma rates and hospitalizations • Cancer deaths • Birth defects • The density of major pollution point sources, such as Toxic Release Inventory sites • Air quality data • Water quality data • Soils data • Acres of land in remediation or conversion The ability to quantify and rank environmental quality, such as person days in excess of air quality standards as shown on the left, enables comparative analysis and the monitoring of conditions. SOURCE : US Environmental Protection Agency Rank CountyPerson Days in Excess of Air Quality Standards
1 WAYNE 54,777,006 2 MACOMB 12,209,220 3 OAKLAND 7,247,214 4 KENT 5,904,170 5 GENESEE 4,422,500 6 WASHTENAW 2,031,372 7 ST. CLAIR 1,352,504 8 OTTAWA 1,246,955 9 INGHAM 1,128,120 10 BERRIEN 976,596 11 KALAMAZOO 968,440 12 MUSKEGON 865,450 13 ALLEGAN 772,317 14 LENAWEE 503,930 15 CLINTON 270,436 16 CASS 256,925 17 HURON 176,080 18 BENZIE 119,546 19 MASON 114,740 20 MISSAUKEE 30,378
AECOM
3.1 Policies/Planning Initiatives
COMMUNITY, CITY, STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS PROMOTE A RANGE OF
PUBLIC HEALTH AND REMEDIATION INITIATIVES.
GREEN TASK FORCE:
• Green Task Force formed to advise the council on green principles and practices • Non‐Motorized Transit • Urban Agriculture • Green Building/Deconstruction • Sustainability Policy/Climate Action Plan • Youth • Green Jobs/Green Business • Water
DETROIT DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
PROMOTION:
• recent study completed by the Department in cooperation with DPS has focused on linking lead exposure and performance in school • current survey of Detroiters (3000 individuals) to evaluate and understand health habits (exercise, eating habits, etc); survey ongoing with expected completion in mid 2011DETROIT DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS:
• Environmental Affairs (EA) is developing a geographic information system (GIS) and Brownfield Database to map environmental assessments and redevelopments throughout the city • includes Phase II ESA Data Soil Sampling & Analysis • used Site Assessment Grant Funds to conduct environmental site assessments throughout the Far Eastside Project area • intended as a tracking tool for developers, community and public and private entities. • Environmental Affairs is seeking EPA grants to conduct comprehensive community assessments of environmental hazards in the city • The Department is also advocating for increased notification of nearby homeowners when major industrial developments are proposed SOURCE: Detroit Health and Wellness, Detroit Department Of Environmental Affairs, Green Task ForceAECOM
3.1 Policies/Planning Initiatives
COMMUNITY, CITY, STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS PROMOTE A RANGE OF
PUBLIC HEALTH AND REMEDIATION INITIATIVES.
SOUTHWEST DETROIT
ENVIRONMENTAL VISION:
• seeks to improve environmental conditions in Southwest Detroit through community advocacy, education, and redevelopment efforts focused on air quality, abandoned buildings, illegal dumping, transportation, recycling, and land use.COMMUNITY ACTION
AGAINST ASTHMA AND
HEALTHY ENVIRONMENTS
PARTNERSHIP:
• collects information on the quality of the indoor and outdoor air in Southwest and Eastside Detroit and examines relationships air quality (particulate matter and ozone), lung functioning, and asthma symptoms in childrenLEAD POISONING
REDUCTION:
• The city and state have a very active set of initiatives to reduce the incidence of lead poisoning in children • Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Program • Lead Elimination Action Program • CHILD‐HELP Lead Hazard Reduction Program • Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program • Lead Poisoning Research at Wayne State University's Center for Urban StudiesBROWNFIELD
REDEVELOPMENT:
• State and city programs are in place to facilitate brownfield redevelopment • Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and Clean Michigan Initiative (CMI) • Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority provides incentives in the city to revitalize underdeveloped or under‐utilized property SOURCE: Detroit Health and Wellness, Michigan Department of Environmental QualityAECOM
3.1 Policies/Planning Initiatives
COMMUNITY, CITY, STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS PROMOTE A RANGE OF
PUBLIC HEALTH AND REMEDIATION INITIATIVES.
DETROIT RIVER-WESTERN
LAKE ERIE BASIN INDICATOR
PROJECT:
• Compiles ecosystem indicators from the Detroit River‐ Western Lake Erie basin, including contaminants in fish, coastal wetland loss, reproductive success of threatened and endangered species, urban sprawl, land use changes and pollutant emissions .SUSTAINABLE DETROIT:
• Information gateway about sustainability efforts around DetroitDETROIT WATER & SEWERAGE
DEPARTMENT
• DWSD maintains a Water Quality Commitment/Policy to ensure safe drinking water for its customers
DETROITERS WORKING FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE:
• Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice formed to address the disproportionate health impacts of environmentally distressed neighborhoods • Build Up Detroit (BUD) Project • Green Jobs Training Program • Youth on Patrol Against Pollution • Community Hazards Awareness Training Seminars (CHATS) • Home Intervention Team (HIT) • Detroit Sustainability Center SOURCE: Detroiters Working For Environmental Justice, Sustainable DetroitAECOM An initial step in identifying disparities in health outcomes is to create an overall profile for City of Detroit residents relative to Wayne County and the State of Michigan. 2008 data from the Michigan Department of Community Health indicate that city death rates for cancer, heart disease and diabetes exceed county and state rates . Research indicates that environmental exposure, as well as social and economic factors, including lifestyle and food choices, can contribute to these illnesses. The following slides more closely examine specific conditions, including chronic respiratory conditions and elevated blood levels in children. SOURCE : MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY HEALTH
LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH RATES ‐ 2008
City of Detroit
Wayne
County
State of
Michigan
Total
1,036.9
921.4
810.3
Heart Disease
329.1
277.9
220.5
Cancer
213.6
198.9
185.4
Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases
33.3
46.4
48.0
Stroke
50.0
43.7
42.3
Unintentional Injuries
38.1
34.5
35.3
Diabetes Mellitus
31.0
27.4
25.3
Alzheimer's Disease
9.3
14.5
24.6
Pneumonia/Influenza
24.3
20.6
17.0
Kidney Disease
23.7
19.3
15.1
Intentional Self‐harm (Suicide)
9.3
10.5
11.5
Note: Rates are per 100, 000.3.2 Existing Conditions
HEALTH INDICATORS REFLECT AN INCREASED RISK AMONG CITY OF
DETROIT RESIDENTS FOR DISEASES WITH ENVIRONMENTAL LINKS.
AECOM
DETROIT RESIDENTS, PARTICULARLY
CHILDREN, EXPERIENCE UNUSUALLY
HIGH RATES OF ASTHMA AND
CHRONIC RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS.
Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation in the airways., which obstructs airflow. An epidemiology of study of asthma in Michigan describes Detroit as the epicenter of the asthma burden. • Detroit experiences the highest rates of asthma in Michigan, especially among its children • Prevalence of asthma among Detroit adults is 50% higher than that of Michigan overall • Rates of asthma hospitalization in Detroit are three times higher than that of Michigan as a whole • In Detroit, recent asthma hospitalization rates for black persons are over two times higher than that for white persons City health data from 2007 indicate high mortality rates for chronic respiratory diseases in the 48214, 48217, 48208 and 48221 zip codes. SOURCE : City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion
AECOM
ASTHMA AND CHRONIC RESPIRATORY
CONDITIONS ARE COSTLY TO TREAT.
According to The Price of Pollution: Cost Estimates of Environment‐Related Childhood Disease in
Michigan, a study conducted by Michigan Network for Children’s Environmental Health and the Ecology Center, the average cost of an asthma hospitalization in Michigan in 2009 for children (1‐ 17 years) was $7,332. The direct annual costs of hospitalizations due to asthma in Michigan are estimated at $31.71 million. According to the study Epidemiology of Asthma in Michigan conducted by the Michigan Department of Community Health and the University of Michigan, the rates of asthma hospitalization in Detroit and Michigan from 200 to 2006 are consistent over time, with no distinguishable trend. SOURCE : Epidemiology of Asthma in Michigan
AECOM
SOUTHWEST DETROIT EXPERIENCES A
HIGH CONCENTRATION OF
POTENTIALLY TOXIC RELEASES.
Environmental health specialists at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit cite a link between environmental pollutants and cancers and heart and respiratory disorders. University of Michigan researchers, funded by a grant from the Kresge Foundation, recently assessed the toxic burden for each zip code in the State of Michigan. The study compiled Environmental Protection Agency data on self‐reported types and amounts of pollutants emitted from facilities. To create a toxicity score, the researchers multiplied pollution amounts by their relative toxicity and then used air modeling to determine how much pollution falls in an area. The analysis includes the most common air toxins generated by industry in metro Detroit, including manganese, diisocyanates, sulfuric acid, nickel, trimethylbenzene, chromium, lead, hydrochloric acid, glycol ethers, chlorine and cobalt. These toxins can threaten health through developmental impairments, cardiovascular risk, cancer risk, respiratory conditions and neurological conditions. SOURCE : Environmental Protection Agency and University of Michigan professors Paul Mohai, Byoung‐Suk Kweon, Sangyun Lee, Kerry Ard. 3.2
AECOM
SOUTHWEST DETROIT EXPERIENCES A HIGH
CONCENTRATION OF POTENTIALLY TOXIC RELEASES.
2576
State’s highest toxicity burden score in Southwest Detroit974
. Toxicity score in zip code 4821156
State’s average toxicity burden score18
State’s median toxicity burden scoreSOURCE : Environmental Protection Agency and University of Michigan professors Paul Mohai, Byoung‐Suk Kweon, Sangyun Lee, Kerry Ard.
3.2
AECOM
THE DETROIT INCINERATOR IS THE
LARGEST WASTE FACILITY IN THE WORLD.
Numerous studies also cite the Greater Detroit Resource Recovery Facility as a major source of Nitrogen Oxides NOx emissions. The facility can burn up to 4,000 tons of garbage daily and release up to 2,251 tons (4.5 M pounds) of regulated pollutants annually. Department of Community Health statistics show that children living near the incinerator in the I‐94/I‐75 corridor are hospitalized for respiratory conditions at three times the rate of the state average. As of October 2010, the facility has ceased operations due to a lapse in the contract with Detroit Thermal, which purchased steam produced at the incinerator. Covanta Energy, minority owner and operator of the incinerator, is seeking options to re‐ open the plant. SOURCE : Detroit Free Press, Ecology Center, and Metro Times
AECOM
STUDIES CITE A LINK BETWEEN
HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS AND
CANCER RISKS.
Though not all TRI releases are necessarily hazardous, overall exposure, particularly cumulative impacts, represents a potential environmental health risk. Studies specifically cite a link between higher exposure to hazardous air pollutants and increased cancer risks. SOURCE : ECOLOGY CENTER 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 Wayne County State of MichiganHazardous Air Pollutant Exposure
Criteria Air Pollutants Per
Square Mile
TRI Faciliites Per Square Mile
AECOM
ALL CHILDREN IN THE CITY OF DETROIT
ARE CONSIDERED AT-RISK FOR LEAD
EXPOSURE.
A 2010 study by the City Health Department and Detroit Public Schools (DPS) cites a link between lead data and lower performance on test scores. Overall, 22,755 children, 58% of all DPS students, had a history of lead poisoning. 2007 data from the Health Department shown on the left indicate the prevalence of lead poisoning in the city. The far eastside experiences the highest exposure. The map to the left shows the prevalence of lead poisoning in the city by zip code. SOURCE : City of Detroit Health and Wellness PromotionAECOM
SOURCES OF LEAD EXPOSURE IN
THE CITY INCLUDE OLDER
HOUSING, AUTOMOBILE EMISSIONS,
AND CURRENT OR HISTORIC
INDUSTRIAL SITES.
Possible sources of lead exposure in the City of Detroit include: • Lead‐based paint • Lead dust in soil due to washing off the sides of houses during rainfall • Lead is also absorbed into soil from automotive and industrial emissions • Lead travels through older pipes with lead or lead solder Studies have specifically cited potentially contaminated soil conditions around former smelters near residential areas. The soil absorbs lead released into the air during previous operations Exposure to lead can have adverse impacts on child development, leading to decreased cognitive abilities, impaired motor skills, and behavioral issues. The map to the left shows the correlation between historic smelter sites and areas with lead poisoning exposure. SOURCE : City of Detroit Health and Wellness PromotionAECOM A review of available data and studies indicate strong spatial relationships between adverse health outcomes in the city and soil and air quality conditions, particularly in Southwest Detroit and neighborhoods on the far Eastside or near the CBD. The map to the left indicates the distribution of potential air and land‐ based pollution sources throughout the city, including industrial parcels, historic smelter sites, toxic release inventory sites, and major freight and freeway systems. SOURCE : City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion
3.3 Data Relationships / Findings
THERE IS A SPATIAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ADVERSE HEALTH OUTCOMES IN
THE CITY AND SOIL AND AIR QUALITY CONDITIONS.
AECOM Given very limited resources and the scale of environmental issues, the City’s Environmental Affairs Department focuses primarily on remediating specific sites in response to development interest or achieving the regulatory compliance of individual industrial or commercial users. Traditional brownfield cleanup typically involves physical or chemical techniques, such as soil removal, for remediating a site. Since it is more costly, this process relies heavily the potential of the site to compete for grants and support future economic investment and increased property tax revenues. While the conventional approach is highly effective at cleaning up and redeveloping select sites in the city, the sheer scale of the issue —Detroit has approximately 45,000 brownfields—means that the supply of clean up candidates far exceeds realistic redevelopment demand in the near future. Many currently vacant, obsolete or blighted sites in the city lack the redevelopment potential to attract developer interest and grant funds due to factors such as parcel size, title issues, location or level of contamination. Alternative remediation techniques, such as phytoremediation, can be more economically viable options for sites in transitional use or longer‐term holding patterns. SOURCE : Environmental Affairs Department
3.3 Data Relationships / Findings
REMEDIATION IN THE CITY IS CURRENTLY DRIVEN BY DEVELOPMENT
AECOM
SUCCESFUL DETROIT
BROWNFIELD
REDEVELOPMENT HAS
INCLUDED PROJECTS SUCH AS:
• Lithuanian Hall • Kales Building • 6200 Second • The Ellington • Merchants Row • Hartz Building • Mexicantown • Fort Shelby Hotel • Woodbridge • Lafer Building • Odd Fellows Hall • Vernor Scotten • Mack Alter South • South University Village • Lombardo Heritage • 6331 East Jefferson • Hudson’s Warehouse • Book Cadillac Hotel & Cadillac Residences • Kennedy Square and Compuware • Charlotte House • 3408 Woodward • Willy’s Overland Lofts • Argonaut Building • TechOne • 41‐47 Burroughs • Mosaic Youth Arts Center SOURCE : Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
AECOM AECOM + Stoss A capital‐intensive model– for public assessment, development driven clean‐up and cleaner industrial technologies– has limited Detroit's ability to remediate and reduce environmental toxins. The lack of resources and capacity to address wide‐scale environmental issues has vast health and development implications for Detroiters.
DUE TO GEOGRAPHIC SIZE
AND LIMITED RESOURCES,
ONLY 10% OF DETROIT’S LAND
HAS BEEN ASSESSED FOR
CONTAMINATION.
SOURCE : accounting: EA, U.Mich Assessments map: Stoss compiled‐ EPA, EA, DCDC, + City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion.
3.3 Data Relationships / Findings
REMEDIATION IN THE CITY IS CURRENTLY DRIVEN BY DEVELOPMENT
AECOM
ESTABLISHING CRITERIA CAN ASSIST
IN PRIORITIZING WHERE TO
INTERVENE IN THE ENVIRONMENT.
The process should begin with addressing two questions: 1. Where do we act first? 2. What are the appropriate remediation strategies? Where do we act first? The graphic to the left shows the classification process used in Southwest Detroit to identify high priority brownfield sites for remediation. The criteria focus on proximity to schools, parks, youth populations, and high‐density residential area; the ability to increase recreational opportunities for neighborhood residents; and the ability to attract investment. SOURCE : Southwest Detroit Vision
AECOM
APPROPRIATE REMEDIATION STRATEGIES VARY
WIDELY BASED ON SITE CONDITIONS AND
HEALTH HAZARDS.
What are the appropriate remediation strategies? Remediation strategies vary widely based on site characteristics, the surrounding context and the nature and severity of the contamination. SOURCE : Southwest DetroitHow severe is the
contamination?
What is the
development
potential of the site?
Could the site be part
of a longer‐term
holding strategy?
AECOM
MORE CONVENTIONAL CLEAN-UP
TECHNIQUES SUCH AS SOIL
REMOVAL OR CAPPING REQUIRE
MORE RESOURCES, A SHORTER
TIMEFRAME AND THE POTENTIAL
FOR REDEVELOPMENT.
What are the appropriate remediation strategies? Appropriate interventions can range from traditional site clean‐up technologies to less costly but longer‐term green remediation techniques. Green technologies can provide for long‐term ecological benefits, while a site is undergoing clean‐up. These practices use plants to draw water, extract toxics, create groundcover, or in some way facilitate clean‐up, while also establishing open space, a livable environment, and habitat. Green technologies are considered viable remedial components for long‐term response actions for residual contamination issues. SOURCE : The Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council Ecological Land Reuse TeamTarget Goal Traditional Remedies Green Remedies
Dig and haul (Source Zones) Excavation, source removal, hot spot removal Caps and barrier containments RCRA covers, slurry/sheet pile walls, permeable reactive barriers Vegetative covers, tree hydraulic barriers
Soil treatment Land farming, Bio‐piles Phyto/bioremediation composting Situ plume Treatment Sparging/soil vapor extraction system Deep‐rooted systems (trees, prairie species) Groundwater control Pumping/extraction systems Tree hydraulic systems Ex situ treatment systems Granular activated carbon, advanced oxidation, bioreactors, catalytic/thermal oxidizers Phytoextraction, photosynthetic oxidation, plant bioreactions, constructed wetlands
AECOM
EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE,
GREEN REMEDIATION AND
OPEN SPACE BUFFERING
TECHNIQUES CAN INCREASE
THE ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY
OF CLEAN-UP AND ADDRESS
WIDESPREAD HEALTH ISSUES
ACROSS THE CITY.
Spatial mapping of health indicators, potential pollution sources, land use, vacancy, schools and parks and greenways assist in targeting broader areas for clean up or conversion into green spaces, urban agriculture or other environmentally sustainable spaces. SOURCE : City of Detroit Health and Wellness Promotion
AECOM
ALTERNATIVE CLEAN-UP
TECHNIQUES CAN SUPPORT A WIDE
RANGE OF OTHER ECOLOGICAL
AND COMMUNITY-BUILDING
FUNCTIONS.
What are the appropriate remediation strategies? Reimagining Cleveland identifies a broad suite of alternative options for land undergoing longer‐term clean‐up. SOURCE : Reimagining Cleveland1.
energy generation: solar
2.
energy generation: wind turbines
3.
energy generation: ethanol production
4.
storm water management: bio‐retention
5.
constructed wetland
6.
riparian setbacks
7.
green space: parks
8.
green space: forest
9.
green space: linkages
10.
wildlife habitat
11.
urban agriculture/commodity farming
12.
tree nursery
13.
bio‐remediation, phyto‐remediation, mycoremediation
14.
storm water management: riparian setbacks, stream daylighting
AECOM
ALTERNATIVE REMEDIATION
TECHNIQUES OFFER A LESS COSTLY
OPTION FOR CLEANING LAND WITH
LIMITED DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL
Conventional brownfield clean‐up, where tainted soils are removed and disposed of in toxic waste facilities, is costly and generally requires state and federal subsidies and strong economic development potential to justify. Bio‐remediation, phytoremediation, and mycoremediation are potential tools for environmental clean up in cases where conventional remediation is not feasible. Bio‐remediation, phytoremediation, and mycoremediation allow natural processes, such as the presence of microbes or plants and fungi, to clean up harmful chemicals in the environment. SOURCE : USGS
AECOM SOURCE : USGS
Contaminant and Area
Phytoremediation Conventional Treatment Projected Savings
Application Estimated Cost Application Estimated Cost
Lead in soil (1 acre) Extraction, harvest, and disposal $150,000 ‐ $250,000 Excavate and landfill $500,000 50‐65 percent Solvents in groundwater (2.5 acres) Degradation and hydraulic control $200,000 for installation and initial maintenance Pump and treat $700,000 annual operating cost 50 percent cost saving by third year Total petroleum hydrocarbons in soil In‐situ degradation $50,000 ‐ $100,000 Excavate and landfill or incinerate $500,000 80 percent
GREEN REMEDIATION AS A COST
EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVE.
By reducing clean up costs by approximately 50 to 80 percent compared to conventional treatment, alternative techniques, such as phytoremediation, can increase the viability of remediation at sites that lack short‐term redevelopment potential Source: Introduction to Phytoremediation. EPA/600/R‐99/107AECOM
PHYTOREMEDIATION RELIES ON NATURAL
VEGETATIVE PROCESSES TO CLEANSE SOIL
AND WATER.
These methods are most effective on sites that: • have lower levels of pollutants, contaminants, hazardous substances, petroleum products, or other wastes and debris • do not pose an immediate and significant hazard to adjacent residents • have limited development potential The results of the study Heavy Metals in an Urban Watershed in Southeastern Michigan indicate elevated levels of lead and other metals in surface soils. The study suggests use of cost‐effective remedial technologies that focus on the reduction of metal concentrations in near‐surface soils, such as phytoremediation. Phytoremediation can occur at both a small and large scale. Sweden has successfully employed a willow phytoremediation system on a site of 185 acres. SOURCE : http://www.mobot.org/jwcross/phytoremediation, Heavy Metals in an Urban Watershed in Southeastern MichiganAECOM
BASIC GREENING TECHNIQUES CAN ALSO PLAY A
ROLE IN ENHANCING ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY.
For example, planting low‐mow native turf grasses or other ground covers on vacant sites can contain lead and thus reduce exposure to airborne lead particles. Other intervention strategies to reduce exposure to environmental hazards and improve health outcomes include: • food security promotion through urban agriculture • healthy home interventions (lead‐free homes or homes with clean indoor air quality) • access to recreation and walking • reductions in vehicle emissions through cleaner fuels or alternative mobility options • use of state‐of‐the‐art filters to catch pollutants from industry emissions • alternative solid waste disposal strategy with a focus on waste reduction, product reuse, recycling, landfill (short‐term option) and sustainable material management SOURCE : AECOM
AECOM
THE ROLE OF SOIL CONDITIONS IN URBAN AGRICULTURE.
The presence of heavy metals in Detroit’s soil is a factor in assessing opportunities for urban agriculture—one of the emerging techniques to rebuild communities and re‐establish more sustainable, livable environments. Currently, no standards for determining soil qualities suitable for urban farming exist. When remediating a specific site to support agricultural activities in Detroit, the Department of Environmental Affairs cleans to a standard acceptable for residential uses. The additional challenge, however, is that residents are not merely in proximity to an area of possible soil contamination, but may be ingesting agricultural products grown at the site. The Department of Environmental Affairs is currently working with Wayne State University and the Michigan State University Agricultural Extension to assess the impact of soil conditions on the viability and safety of urban farming in the City of Detroit. The most commonly found metals are lead, cadmium, nickel, and mercury. The standards for “safe” lead levels are 100 parts per million (ppm) if there are small children who may eat the soil or 300 ppm for the growing of edible products. Approaches for addressing lead in soils include: • immobilizing lead by reducing the soil acidity and adding organic matter followed by planting of sod • mixing or covering the high‐lead soil with clean, low‐lead soil • growing ornamental plants rather than edible plants in areas of known contamination • using phytoremediation, fungal remediation or compost remediation • using raised beds, container gardens, and hydroponics to avoid contaminants The Department of Environmental Affairs currently endorses the use of raised beds in Detroit until further soil testing is conducted. Land adjacent to heavily traveled traffic corridors, old buildings, and active or former industrial sites are likelier to have soil issues. Soil testing is available to small acreage farmers, and urban homeowners through mail‐in kits that can be analyzed at accredited laboratories. SOURCE : farm4 Raised beds are an option to avoid issues of soil contamination
AECOM
PHYSICALLY DESIGNING COMMUNITIES TO
SUPPORT HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES CAN ALSO
PRODUCE BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Healthy Communities Program focuses on mobilizing communities to reduce rates of chronic disease and its risk factors. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to building social and economic capacity, improving physical and social access to health assets, and physically designing communities to support healthier lifestyles. The program emphasizes. • Smart Location and Linkage: Encourage development within and near existing communities or public transportation infrastructure. Reduce vehicle trips and miles traveled and support walking as a transportation choice. • Neighborhood Pattern and Development: Compact Development. Conserve land. Promote livability, transportation efficiency, and walkability. The CDC has also been a partner is developing the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development (LEED‐ND) rating system. LEED‐ND is the first national standard for neighborhood design that: • encourages neighborhood development projects that protect and enhance the overall health, natural environment, and quality of life in communities • promotes the location and design of neighborhoods that reduce auto dependence by providing jobs and services that are accessible by foot, bicycle, or public transit. SOURCE : Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Walkability and safe streets are a strategy to improve health outcomes and community fabric
AECOM
THE OVERALL DESIGN AND FUNCTION OF COMMUNITIES CAN REDUCE HEALTH RISKS.
The CDC notes the following health and social benefits from community design and green space networks. SOURCE : Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Strategy Reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, and hypertension Reduce the risk of asthma and other respiratory diseases, and reduce air pollution Increase social connection and sense of community Improve mental health Encourage healthier diets developing communities that promote walking and accessible transit
√
√
encouraging the building of residences and businesses closer together and within existing communities√
√
creating streets or areas that are interconnected easily accessible, safe√
√
providing appealing, safe and comfortable street environments√
√
√
√
placing a variety of open spaces and parks close to work and home√
√
√
√
promoting the creation of a bicycling network√
√
reducing the amount time spent commuting√
making fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible through community‐based and local food production√
√
AECOM The Calumet region is a 160‐square‐mile area that includes a significant portion of the City of Chicago and Gary, Indiana. The area historically had heavy industrial development, resulting in slag deposits along Lake Michigan and in wetlands. Rivers were also dredged and channelized. Since 2000, the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, Chicago Park District, Forest Preserve District of Cook County, conservation organizations, local cultural institutions, industrial groups, and residents have collaborated to rehabilitate 20 square miles of the area’s open spaces and industrial parcels. • Issues: significant brown field issues; loss of natural habitat • Opportunities: use of willow, cottonwood trees and switchgrass to remove contaminants from soil; a 4,000‐acre Calumet Open Space Reserve was created; Re‐engineering of the Indian Creek waterway to provide natural aquatic habitat • Lessons: strong multi‐partnership collaboration; ; a economic‐ecosystem approach that balances restoring landscapes and attracting new, cleaner industries SOURCE : USDA Forest Service North Central Research Station
4.1 Precedents
THE CALUMET REGION INITIATIVE USES A HOLISTIC ECO-SYSTEM APPROACH
TO HEAL THE ENVIRONMENT.
AECOM
RUST TO GREEN NEW
YORK STATE FOCUSES
ON GREEN
REMEDIATION.
Rust to Green is a network and action research initiative of academic, citizen, and community partners that focuses on sustainable design, green infrastructure, urban resilience, and ecologically sound design in Utica and other formerly industrial cities in the State of New York. • Issues: significant brown field issues; aging housing; high prevalence of lead poisoning • Opportunities: analysis of soil conditions and mapping; use of green remediation techniques, including phytoremediation and sound waves; pilot project in raised‐ bed agriculture • Lessons: application of science‐based green remediation practices SOURCE : Rust to GreenAECOM
GROWTH THROUGH ENERGY
AND COMMUNITY HEALTH
(GTECH) COMBINES
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT,
JOBS CREATION AND
REMEDIATION.
GTECH Strategies is a Pittsburgh‐based non‐profit organization that seeks to build community through green economy initiatives and blight elimination. Projects reclaim land by applying low‐cost environmental strategies on single sites and large development corridors. GTECH also focuses on green job training and the use of transitioning spaces to stabilize distressed communities, • Issues: vacant, blighted sites that erode community fabric • Opportunities: planting of sunflowers, switchgrass and other vegetation for biofuel production; bioenergy gardens • Lessons: transitioning of vacant lots to productive uses that anchor community revitalization SOURCE : Growth Through Energy And Community HealthAECOM SOURCE : AECOM
Issue
Challenge
Opportunity
Significant number of brownfield sites
throughout city
Limited development potential on some sites
hinders traditional remediation techniques;
proximity to residential areas poses a health
risk; remediation is current y development
driven
Land re-use strategy including ranking
system to determine appropriate
remediation techniques; use of alternative,
less costly green remediation practices
High metal content in surface soils
Proximity to residential areas poses a health
risk
Phytoremediation
High lead exposure for children in some
neighborhoods
Presence of lead in soils and air-borne lead
particles
Phytoremediation, vegetative land cover,
home interventions
High rates of respiratory illness and asthma
Concentration of toxins in city
neighborhoods, particularly to the southwest
Cleaner technology to reduce automotive
and industrial emissions; use of basic
greening practices to enhance air quality
Major incinerator
Known source of nitrogen oxides
Cleaner technology to reduce emissions ;
alternative solid waste disposal strategies
5.1 Opportunities / Challenges
ANALYSIS INDICATES AN OPORTUNITY TO USE ALTERNATIVE REMEDIATION
TECHNIQUES TO ENHANCE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND COMMUNITY
HEALTH IN DETROIT.
AECOM
WHAT IF VACANT OR
UNDERUSED LOTS COULD BE
TRANSFORMED INTO
ECOLOGICALLY PRODUCTIVE
SPACES THAT CLEANSE SOIL
AND GROUNDWATER?
• Underused land becomes part of a permanent or transitional inventory of green infrastructure throughout the city
• Alternative greening and remediation techniques are in place
• Sites support renewable energy production and other green economy initiatives
SOURCE : AECOM
AECOM
WHAT IF DETROIT BECOMES A
EMISSIONS AND
ZERO-WASTE CITY?
• Employ state-of-the-art waste-to-energy plant technology
• Zones with limited vehicular use
• Emphasis on fully sustainable material management
SOURCE : Eco‐Cycle
5.2 Thematic Development
Zero Waste is a process that encourages recycling and diversion from landfills, and also restructures production and distribution systems to prevent waste from being manufactured