Research Papers for ESPM 4601

First Paper:

Write a technical review of the environmental issues created by pollution of soil with a specific  inorganic element, organic compound, or class of organic compounds.  Discuss common sources of pollution, toxicity, risks to humans, limits for exposure, known risk to other organisms, and  environmental fate and mobility.

The paper should be 5  to 6 double spaced pages, not counting the illustrations.  You should have at least 6 references and at least 3 of these references should be from technical publications.  On-line technical sources are OK if well documented but some paper sources must be included.  Encyclopedias, including Wikipedia, are not ever included as technical references.

Your grade will be based both on the written paper and your participation in the discussion that will follow the handing in of the papers

Use the name-year style of citation and the Soil Science Society of America style for references.  See the "Writing" links on the ESPM 4601 "Links" web page.

Second Paper

This will be a poster presentation done in pairs (pick your own partner). The subject will be remediation technologies for contaminated soil and water. Pick a remediation technology, discuss the which compounds of concern (COCs) call for the use the method, give  technical details, and discuss effectiveness.  Also discuss the regulatory considerations, possible environmental concerns with the remediation, public acceptance, and  cost relative to alternative technologies.
 

In addition to the poster you will submit a 2 to 3 page extended abstract with least 10 references and at least 8 of these references should be from technical publications.

    Possible technologies include:

In situ bioremediation (several options)
Ex situ bioremediation (many options)
Various forms of soil venting and air sparging.
Incineration.
Thermal desorption.
Landfilling
Soil washing
Pump and treat. (many options)
Fixation in place or other containment options.
Monitored natural attenuation.