What cleanup option must be used for a site with groundwater contamination?

The correct choice is Risk Based because it addresses the need for a tailored approach to manage groundwater contamination. When groundwater is contaminated, it is essential to consider the level of risk that the contaminants pose to human health and the environment.

A Risk Based cleanup strategy evaluates potential exposure pathways and the likelihood of adverse effects from contaminants in the groundwater. This approach allows for more flexible remediation solutions, taking into account factors such as the concentration of pollutants, their mobility, and the proximity of human activity. As a result, a Risk Based strategy may determine that certain contaminants are acceptable at specific levels if they do not pose a significant risk to human health or the environment.

This option also facilitates the development of site-specific remediation efforts, which can be more efficient and cost-effective than generic cleanup methods. By focusing on the actual risk rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution, this approach helps ensure that the cleanup is both effective and appropriate for the conditions present at the contaminated site.

Other approaches, such as using a Soil matrix or Generic Remedy, may not adequately address the specific conditions of groundwater contamination or the associated risks. In Place treatment might suggest leaving contaminants in the ground while applying a method to reduce their impact, but this may not be suitable for groundwater