EPA Unveils Web Site Promoting Brownfield Cleanup, Reuse

EPA has launched a Web site to promote the cleanup and reuse of brownfield properties across the nation that are regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Brownfields are properties whose expansion, redevelopment or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance. Called the RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative Web site, it provides the public easy access to useful information about the reuse of brownfield properties where hazardous waste was generated, treated, stored or disposed.

Despite the existence of redevelopment potential for residential, industrial, commercial, recreational or greenspace (undeveloped property) use, many of these RCRA properties are not fully used because of real or perceived concerns about actual or potential contamination, legal liability and RCRA requirements. EPA established the initiative to encourage the reuse of potential RCRA brownfields so the land better serves the needs of the community.

RCRA gives EPA the authority to control hazardous waste from "cradle-to-grave," including generation, treatment, storage and disposal. RCRA generally focuses on active and future facilities and is designed to prevent future Superfund sites and brownfields.

The RCRA Brownfields Prevention Initiative links RCRA facilities with the brownfields program to help use economic redevelopment as an engine that drives environmental cleanup.

For more information about the initiative, see the Brownfields Prevention Initiative Web site.

Updated: March 17, 2003