Investigation and Remediation

Sub-Service of Environmental Services
Lead Contact
Alex Rothchild
Environmental Services

Environmental investigation and remediation services

The environmental remediation space is evolving beyond site cleanups toward more integrated, sustainable transformation strategies. We combine cross-sector expertise to deliver integrated investigation and remediation solutions—using advanced technologies to reduce risk and unlock future use. Our global teams work collaboratively to address complex containment challenges while protecting communities. 

Environmental remediation challenges: PFAS, ESG compliance, and contaminated sites 

The global environmental remediation market is growing rapidly, driven by tightening regulation, legacy contamination, and rising demand for sustainable site reuse. Key challenges include: 

  • Emerging contaminants: Substances such as PFAS are becoming more widespread, requiring advanced investigation and treatment. They introduce new compliance demands and long-term liabilities, making effective management both an operational and strategic priority. 
  • Rising expectations: Regulators, investors, and communities increasingly expect remediation approaches that reduce carbon, promote environmental justice, and support the communities most affected by pollution. 
  • Regulatory and ESG complexity: Evolving global frameworks—from U.S. PFAS regulations to the EU’s sustainability directives—are increasing legal and financial pressures. Organizations need coordinated, cross-market strategies to stay compliant, manage risk, and demonstrate accountability to stakeholders. 

 

 

Delivering results that protect people and the planet

Arcadis delivers comprehensive remediation programs on complex sites worldwide, combining technical expertise and innovative solutions to restore environments safely and sustainably. 

PFAS waste minimization for an airline operator

Following the release 22,000 liters of firefighting foam containing PFAS at an Australian airport hangar, we developed an urgent treatment solution. Within five weeks, we designed, built, permitted, and commissioned a water treatment plant. The system treated over 15 million liters of contaminated water, helping prevent long-term environmental damage and allowing rapid resumption of airport operations.

Urgent PFAS risk assessment for Dordrecht, Netherlands

The city of Dordrecht faced contamination linked to PFOA, a PFAS compound associated with historical chemical manufacturing. Arcadis worked with the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to develop an action plan. Our teams conducted soil investigations across 25 locations using an internally developed sampling protocol and produced technical documentation covering PFOA properties, toxicity, and remediation approaches to support accurate risk assessments. 

Restoring a former industrial area in Brazil

After a decade-long restoration program failed to remediate a former industrial site in São Paulo, Brazil, the client engaged Arcadis to complete the project and prepare the land for redevelopment. Within two years, we implemented an integrated remediation strategy combining thermal treatment, bioremediation, and advanced investigation tools, reducing costs and enabling safe commercial and residential site reuse. 
 
By combining advanced science with collaborative delivery, we help organizations achieve environmental compliance while preparing sites for safe, productive future use. 
15M liters advanced PFAS treatment
of contaminated water in five weeks at an Australian airport hangar
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