E3P - a multidisciplinary environmental consultancy - has provided key industry insights to help shape a new guide designed to broaden understanding of contaminated land.
The Birmingham firm collaborated with the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA), which published the document.
E3P was part of the steering group that developed the document, focused on managing per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soil and water environments.
PFAS, a group of resilient synthetic chemicals found in everyday products such as paint, cleaning agents, and carpets, are increasingly recognised for their persistence in the environment and potential risks to human health.
PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are used in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foams, and food packaging. They don’t break down, build up in the environment and humans, and are linked to health risks like cancer and hormone disruption.
The guidance, published in January, represents a milestone for the industry. It aims to support the property sector in effectively managing contamination caused by PFAS, which will facilitate more successful remediation works.
This, in turn, ensures property developers and contractors can undertake construction work, helping to avoid project delays and cancellations.
E3P’s role on the steering group involved providing expert review and practical insights informed by its extensive experience in land contamination and remediation projects.
The consultancy helped to ensure the guidance reflects current industry challenges and delivers actionable solutions for environmental practitioners.
The guidance provides clear and practical strategies for managing and remediating PFAS in soil and water, helping developers and contractors tackle contamination challenges effectively, reducing uncertainty and risk. This enables stalled projects to progress, transforming underused land into viable development opportunities.
With brownfield land playing a crucial role in meeting the UK’s housing and infrastructure demands, the guidance paves the way for smoother redevelopment while protecting environmental and public health. It serves as an essential resource for overcoming a key obstacle to regenerating urban areas and supporting sustainable growth.
Stephanie Cox, director of E3P, said: “E3P's participation in this imperative industry project reflects our commitment to advancing environmental best practices and supporting the industry in addressing complex challenges.
“CIRIA did a fantastic job authoring the guidance and we were more than happy to participate in the steering group. This allowed us to contribute to key discussions and share practical expertise to ensure the document is relevant, pragmatic and aligned with industry standards.
“By helping shape this resource, we aim to facilitate more effective approaches to managing PFAS contamination in the UK and internationally, driving meaningful improvements for the property and construction sectors.”
