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Materials Management and Resource Conservation Research
Modeling Research: A multimedia modeling approach (3MRA) has been developed to assess the benefits of reducing Waste Minimization Priority Chemicals (WMPC). Using the model, researchers conducted a national-scale comparative risk reduction assessment of select WMPCs. The assessment measured the benefits of reducing risks to humans and ecological receptors by reducing WMPC waste streams in industrial waste management units.
The research demonstrated the utility of 3MRA for conducting national-scale exposure and risk assessment studies. Results allow managers to effectively evaluate anticipated waste management scenarios and waste management unit type leading to least risk. In addition, 3MRA results show which receptor classes will be at greatest risk, and which subpopulations will experience lesser or greater risk than their counterparts.
Landfill Technology Research: Eight evapotranspiration covers for landfills under construction in 2006 are expected to save more than $30 million at landfills. Research and technology transfer on evapotranspiration covers for landfills has resulted in construction of the innovative cover at more than 35 sites. For 13 of the sites that reported figures (FY06 data), cost savings ranged from $20-100 thousand per acre, with a median savings of $40,000, compared to a conventional multi-layer cover. More than 2,500 people have attended classroom or internet training, much of it leveraged through the Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council, a state-federal partnership for state regulators.
Bioreactor research: Bioreactor research received a Kentucky Governor's Award in 2003 and a SWANA Landfill Management award in 2005.
Decision Support Tool: During work with the community of Stella, Missouri to demolish the asbestos-laden Cardwell Hospital Superfund site and develop a reuse plan, EPA asked community leaders to test a web-based decision support tool called SMARTe, developed by the Land Research Program. The tool was used to create a sustainable master plan for redevelopment. Scientists worked closely with the community to create a draft master plan for redevelopment. Residents provided their values and vision for Stella and suggestions for the reuse of the site. Based on this wealth of input, EPA provided a draft master plan to the community in 2007.
The community is now using SMARTe to implement the master plan. Through the use of SMARTe, community members have identified and begun applying for loans and grants to help them realize their vision. They also identified contacts from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture to support their efforts.