Advances in science and technology provide the Department of Defense (DoD) with the tools it needs to effectively manage and restore its assets to protect the troops, their families, the public, and the environment. The DoD is responsible for thousands of properties throughout the United States and around the world. These include both old and new training ranges as well as industrial production and maintenance facilities.
In support of the Defense Environmental Restoration Program, SERDP and ESTCP address the cleaning and management of sites impacted by legacy and emerging environmental hazards on current and former military installations. The programs support the development and demonstration of innovative technologies to characterize, remediate, and scientifically manage environmental hazards in soil, sediments, groundwater, surface water, and wastewater.
Thousands of military sites have been identified as contaminated with chlorinated solvents, energetic materials, perchlorate, and other hazardous compounds. All such sites require characterization, remediation and monitoring. SERDP and ESTCP efforts are leading to improved cleanup practices and reduced life-cycle costs.
Sediment contamination is a significant liability for the DoD. SERDP and ESTCP have invested in research and demonstration projects that develop sound science and effective restoration tools to characterize, remediate, manage, and monitor DoD sites in a manner that reduces risks.
In order to meet its mission, the DoD must be able to deliver clean, safe drinking water and effectively treat wastewater to protect public health and the environment, while maximizing operational flexibility. SERDP and ESTCP are developing innovative technologies to improve the treatment of wastewater and drinking water and maximize the potential for reuse at both fixed installations and forward operating bases.
