Which cleanup option is generally favored by the DEQ for contaminated soil?

The option favored by the DEQ for the cleanup of contaminated soil is thermal treatment. This method involves using heat to remove or destroy contaminants present in the soil, making it an effective way to remediate hazardous materials. Thermal treatment methods can include techniques such as incineration and thermal desorption.

One of the key reasons this approach is preferred is that it can significantly reduce the volume of hazardous waste and, in many cases, completely destroy the contaminants rather than simply transferring them to another location. This approach aligns with the DEQ’s emphasis on comprehensive and permanent solutions to pollution issues, contributing to a safer environment and the restoration of contaminated sites.

In contrast, other cleanup options such as landfill disposal may involve burying the contaminated material, which could lead to long-term environmental issues if the containment systems fail. Above ground treatment and in-place treatment methods may not be as effective in achieving the thorough remediation of soil contaminants compared to thermal treatment, further highlighting why thermal treatment is generally the favored option.