Remediation of Soils Polluted by Military Activities

This chapter presents an overview of military activities that can cause harm to soil systems through pollution by chemicals such as energetic materials, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatics hydrocarbons and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and pathways for its remediation. Case studies are presented to demonstrate real-life scenarios where military activities have created environmental and soil impacts. It also includes an outline of chemical, biological, and physical remediation approaches for these polluted soils. These approaches include chemical leaching, stabilisation photolysis, electrokinetic remediation, and bioremediation, among others. The chapter also describes the significance of integrating bioavailability science into remediation processes as it helps to avoid the overestimation of the risks associated with the presence of a contaminant. The final section of the chapter describes the importance of risk assessment and how early implementation can minimise impacts to the environment, implement cost-savings, and incorporate proactive strategies to avoid reactive situations when dealing with contamination.