Strategic Risk Management

A long history of intensive industry and waste disposal across the UK has led to widespread contamination of soil, groundwater, water bodies and their sediments. In many cases, these potential hazards are the legacy of commercial ventures that no longer exist or disposal sites that have been closed down or abandoned. Estimates of the land area associated with these “unclaimed” liabilities range up to 300 000 hectares, and, given the current socio-economic climate, is a priority for regeneration.

 

The decision to acquire a historically contaminated site, or to discharge liabilities through the remediation of a site, is one that must be taken with very careful consideration of many factors. The financial and social implications may be considerable, especially if adequate information is not available. To minimise the risks associated with such decisions, it is vital to have high-quality expert opinions based upon sound diligence and site assessment strategies.

 

SSEM can help clients evaluate and cost potential risks to their business arising from potentially contaminated land, thereby:

Facilitating commercial transactions;

Protecting against unforseen regeneration costs;

Minimising provisions for potential contamination liability;

Enhancing land values;

Ensuring a positive reputation.

Acquisition and Divestment Management Services

Acquisition and divestment liability assessment;

Land investigation and risk assessment;

Ecological Investigations, assessment and management;

Cost estimates for regeneration;

Design and implementation of remedial strategies;

Liaison and negotiation with statutory consultees;

Risk communication to stakeholders.

Land Portfolio Management Services

Identification of ongoing environmental management issues and liabilities;

Contaminated land site investigation and risk assessments;

Monitoring of emissions to water, land and air;

Response to pollution incidents;

Emergency Ecological Response Procedure(EERP) development;

Development of environmental risk and emergency management plans.