When to Use Continuous Monitoring to Resolve Vapor Intrusion Challenges
Several common questions arise when investigating a site for potential vapor intrusion related challenges. Often it is difficult to discern whether vapor intrusion is occurring and if so, where it is entering the building. Additionally, it is important to be able to identify the composition of intruding vapors, because certain harmful vapors such as trichloroethylene (TCE) require immediate action to minimize health risks and associated liabilities. Once vapor intrusion is discovered and mitigation ensues, an added concern is whether or not the mitigation achieved key risk reduction objectives or actually increased potential exposures. In the past, each of these concerns has been difficult to address with traditional canister and sorbent sample monitoring methods because of their propensity for false positive and false negative conclusions and insufficient sampling resolution in dynamic settings. However, technological developments over the past decade have rendered continuous monitoring platforms viable and cost-effective solutions capable of addressing each of these concerns.
VaporSafeTM, an automated laboratory grade analytical and reporting solution developed by Groundswell Technologies and Hartman Environmental Geoscience, is a near real-time continuous vapor monitoring and response platform capable of tracking chemical concentrations from up to 30 locations as far as 300m from the instrument. This system is used to assess whether vapor intrusion is an issue, determine the vapor composition, distinguish between indoor sources and vapor intrusion, and to quickly identify vapor entry locations. VaporSafe is particularly useful for sites experiencing trichloroethylene (TCE) vapor intrusion concerns because these sites require rapid response to minimize health risks and associated liabilities. Unlike traditional monitoring methods, VaporSafe responds to acute TCE risks within minutes – well before an exposure duration of concern has transpired.
The VaporSafe data patterns enable rapid resolution and advancement to the next step in the site management process. As such, this technology can be integrated into projects during several phases: during initial screening and due diligence efforts; when monitoring to confirm no risk; to rapidly identify vapor entry points; to distinguish between indoor sources and vapor intrusion; to optimize mitigation systems; and to prevent current and future exposures through automated response. Because this technology produces key patterns and correlations within hours, it is also useful for efficiently resolving questions during escrow for property transactions and Brownfield redevelopment efforts. VaporSafe makes it possible to anticipate and correct problems before concentration levels become acute – saving time, money and energy. For more information, go to groundswelltech.com/VaporSafe.
Vapor Intrusion Characterization and Management Solutions: The Case for Continuous Monitoring
Vapor intrusion is challenging to characterize for a multitude of reasons. For example, many cases involve indoor background sources, preferential subsurface migration pathways, shallow subsurface and indoor concentration dynamics, or limitations associated with manual monitoring. Typically, canisters and passive diffusion samplers are used to measure and monitor potential vapor intrusion exposures. Unfortunately, these types of samplers don’t provide sufficient temporal or spatial resolution in dynamic settings. As a result, this method has a propensity to yield false-negative and false-positive results. In addition, the time required to obtain a result is longer than the acute TCE exposure duration of concern, so these options can result in unhealthy exposures and liabilities.
Thanks to technological advances, continuous monitoring platforms are now being used to characterize and monitor vapor intrusion. These platforms are made of multiplexed lab grade analytical components with quality control features to automatically generate geospatial time stamped renderings and time weighted averages through a cloud-based management platform. Continuous monitoring platforms provide auto alerts and responses within one minute of the threshold exceedance detection. Further, these platforms provide superior temporal and spatial resolution based on high frequency repeat analyses from strategic monitoring locations, resulting in an optimized remediation design and unequivocal mitigation system performance confirmation. Blower and HVAC controls can also be engaged automatically when needed.
Until a few years ago, cost and instrumentation limitations rendered continuous monitoring systems impractical. Automation and multiplexing now make it possible to perform rapid, cost-effective and continuous assessment and response with a single instrument. For example, a cost comparison analysis of a series of common monitoring scenarios showed that continuous monitoring platforms were cost-competitive when 5 or more locations were being monitored (read the full article here). Automated response capabilities also provide for acute TCE risk prevention, which is not possible with any other monitoring method.
Regulatory support for these platforms has enabled property owners and their consultants to more accurately address potential liabilities, reduce unnecessary remediation costs, produce more effective and surgical remediation strategies, and allow practitioners to most effectively evaluate remediation system performance. More specifically, continuous monitoring allows practitioners to quickly (within a day or two) determine whether vapor intrusion is an issue, and if so, to identify the vapor entry location(s). Once mitigation has been engaged, continuous monitoring is used to confirm that risk reduction objectives have been met. When aggressive remedies such as thermal remediation and oxidation are employed, continuous monitoring is used to assure all stakeholders that fugitive emissions are managed appropriately and to inform site managers when system adjustments are required.
“Any project manager considering using in-situ thermal heating would be well advised to use continuous real-time monitoring of the rapidly changing emission scenario. We have been able to anticipate and correct problems before the concentration levels became acute, which has saved time, money and energy.” – EPA Project Manager
It is clear that many of the difficulties associated with characterizing and managing vapor intrusion can be eliminated with continuous monitoring and response. These systems should therefore be considered by industry practitioners as a cost-effective and viable method for quickly resolving vapor intrusion challenges.
Employee Spotlight: Kim Bradley, Inside Sales Manager
As one who has followed REGENESIS’ growth for many years, joining the company’s Land Science® division as its new Inside Sales Manager was especially gratifying for Kim Bradley. “I have enjoyed watching REGENESIS grow over the last 20 years,” says Bradley. “Over that time, I have seen the company evolve into a leader in remedial technologies for both in-situ remediation and vapor intrusion mitigation. For some time now, I wanted to get back to my environmental roots after focusing on process safety and construction, so joining Land Science® is a natural fit.” In her new role, Bradley will provide technical and project support for vapor intrusion (VI) sites across North America for the company’s technical sales team. In addition, she will also initiate community outreach and education on VI barrier solutions, emerging regulations, and industry best practices by moderating presentations to property owners, developers, architects, environmental firms, and general contractors.
With a background that includes experience in engineering, project management, and business development, Bradley brings an appealing range of expertise to her position, and looks forward to the challenges and rewards ahead. She continues, “I’m excited to work with the various departments at REGENESIS and that I will be interfacing with all divisions.” When asked what her future goals moving forward are with REGENESIS and Land Science®, Bradley stresses the importance of building industry relationships. She continues, “A key priority of mine will be to increase the industry awareness of Land Science and REGENESIS by strategically planning and developing relationships with the top developers, architects, and general contractors.” Developing these all important relationships should come naturally to Bradley, who feels the best aspects of her profession involve, “Collaboration, education, strategic planning, and client relations.” And the most challenging part of her work? “Keeping up with the numerous regulatory agencies’ interpretation of the emerging regulations. Our industry has become heavily regulated, resulting in a variety of potential innovative solutions. It’s been my experience that as long as a regulator sees that you have a plan with a reasonable timeline in place, they will work with you.”
While earning her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Michigan State University, Bradley enjoyed the environmental course work and became interested in a career in environmental engineering as a way of returning the environment to its natural state so that land can be rejuvenated and utilized again. After graduation she immediately began her career in Southern California as a consultant, project manager, and client advocate in the environmental, process safety and construction arenas.
When asked what she feels the future holds for environmental remediation, she points to the increased attention and emphasis within the regulatory space. She continues, “The regulatory requirements will only become more stringent with time, and I foresee more regulation focused on long-term solutions and more incentives or tax credits made available in exchange for compliance.”
Residing in Laguna Niguel, Bradley is the mother of two children, and in her free time enjoys an array of water sports such as kayaking, white water rafting and boating. She also finds time for alpine skiing, hiking and camping, and is an avid college/professional football, baseball and hockey fan. In her spare time she donates and volunteers for the Alzheimer’s Foundation and to her local Business Development Guild. With regard to our planet and environment, she feels we all have a role to play in sustainability. “Everyone needs to embrace making our environment a healthier place to live, and I’m enjoying the fact that I can potentially make an impact.”
REGENESIS is proud to have Kim Bradley as the new Inside Sales Manager for Land Science®, and looks forward to her leadership and contributions in providing successful remediation outcomes for REGENESIS, Land Science®, and its clients.
What is Vapor Mitigation?
Vapor mitigation is a segment of the environmental industry that is maturing rapidly. There are many new technologies emerging to prevent vapor intrusion which safely and effectively address a variety of structures. Vapor mitigation methods are classified as either passive or active.
Passive vapor mitigation involves barriers installed in existing buildings or pre-construction to prevent the entry of chemical vapors. Passive vapor barriers are installed in a variety of structures including homes, businesses, or other industrial buildings and are generally a cost-effective approach, making passive vapor barriers the most common and appealing method for vapor mitigation. One approach available for existing structures is to seal or fill the cracks in a building’s floor slab or around pipes and utility lines in walls. Retro-Coat™ is an example of a vapor barrier coating system that protects existing structures and can be customizable to fit the unique needs of the structure. Another method of passive mitigation is installing a venting layer in a basement which pushes harmful vapors toward the sides of the building and then outdoors. A third vapor barrier option involves installing a barrier made up of strong plastic-like sheets placed beneath a building’s foundation or in crawl spaces. At Land Science, Geo-Seal® is a safe and proven vapor barrier system comprised of three intensive layers designed and installed in newly constructed buildings. Scientifically tested to provide the highest level of protection from vapor intrusion, Geo-Seal is the trusted source for many environmental professionals and developers across the US and Canada.
Active mitigation is the practice of changing the pressure between the sub-slab and the inside of the building to keep chemical vapors out. This method is considered to be highly effective but is usually more expensive than a passive system due to the high cost of maintenance. A sub-slab depressurization (SSD) system involves the use of a blower or electric fan. A suction pit is installed in the sub-slab allowing for contaminated groundwater vapors to rise to the surface and into the structure. The electric fan or blower draws out the chemical vapors and releases them outside the building’s structure. This system is highly effective and is used for radon and VOC control. Another active mitigation system available involves building pressurization which adjusts a building’s heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation system indoors relative to the pressure in the sub-slab. When positive pressure is introduced inside the building, it prevents chemical vapor from entering the building. This method tends to produce a high energy cost and is considered to be less-effective compared to SSD.
Additionally, there are solutions developed using both passive and active methods. For example, a passive system can be designed to become active if needed and is offered as one of the options available through Land Science. Vapor Vent™ goes above and beyond by providing cost savings, speedy installation, and other performance benefits.
Sources:
–http://www.newmoa.org/cleanup/cwm/vapor/FolkesPresentationApril2006.pdf
–https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/P100F9XC.TXT
–https://www.trcsolutions.com/writable/images/TRC-white-paper-Vapor-Intrusion-FINAL-March-2016.pdf
Brownfield Developments
Brownfields are a big concern in the U.S. due to the environmental, economic, and political issues they represent. A Brownfield site is a property whose sale or reuse is prevented due to the presence of contaminants or pollutants. While these properties often pose liabilities for the communities they are a part of, they also represent business opportunities for environmental consulting firms and can be a springboard for community redevelopment and economic revitalization because of the EPA’s Brownfields Program.
The US EPA is behind many of the developments concerning Brownfield sites. This US EPA provides grants and technical assistance to communities to assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse contaminated properties. The grants make way for ensuring clean air, water, and land preservation and restoration.
A study done in 2015 proves the economic value of cleaning Brownfield properties outlining the benefits to communities and citing positive outcomes like residential property value increasing by up to 15% within 1.5 miles from the affected site. Every year the US EPA assesses its accomplishments among the nation’s communities. The most recent and comprehensive results as of May 1st, 2017 include: 26,722 properties assessed nationwide, 124,760 jobs leveraged from the results, $23.950 BN dollars leveraged, and 67,419 acres anticipated to be ready for use again. These numbers are promising in the developments at Brownfield sites. In Pennsylvania for example, the state received $1.8 million in funding to examine Brownfields. This enacted local organizations to take on many new projects while making significant progress in impacting contaminated sites.
While the benefits of the EPA Brownfields program are clear, challenges remain for property developers and environmental professionals who are tasked with cleaning up and remediating these sites before they are cleared by regulators for re-use. Perhaps most notably, vapor intrusion from soil and groundwater contaminants is often a problem that must be mitigated. As risk standards and other compliance issues associated with contaminant vapor intrusion continually evolve, engineered controls like those offered by Land Science provide a practical, cost-effective solution to eliminate risks.
Recent advances in contaminant vapor intrusion mitigation developed by Land Science have assisted developers, engineering firms, regulators, and land owners by providing technically sound solutions effectively mitigating these issues. These solutions include Geo-Seal Vapor Intrusion Barrier for new building construction, and Retro-Coat Vapor Intrusion Coating for existing structures.
Land Science is a vital part of Brownfield developments in the environmental industry. Land Science contracts with environmental consultants and developers to remediate contaminated Brownfield sites using effective technology and product solutions. There is a lot of value in cleaning up Brownfields that positively affects not only the environment but our economy and communities. Land Science takes pride in Brownfield development efforts nationwide. Most notably, in 2016 Land Science won the Phoenix Award for an impressive brownfield revitalization project. The project was a severely contaminated site that was remediated and redeveloped into the Cardinal Health Center in Michigan. Additionally, Land Science attends Brownfield conferences annually which focus on environmental rejuvenation to stimulate economic activity in contaminated areas.
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/brownfields
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/03/environmental-protection-agency-budget-cuts/
What is Vapor Intrusion?
Vapor intrusion (VI) is a relatively new concept in the environmental industry first recognized in the 1980’s. It was discovered that contaminants in the soil and groundwater could be the cause behind poor indoor air quality through the movement of vapors coming up through the ground or slab.
Vapor Intrusion is defined as a process by which chemicals in the soil or groundwater migrate to indoor air above a contaminated site. These chemicals are often known as Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs. Vapors typically enter a living space through pathways underground in a building’s foundation. These active vapors can pass through cracks in the wall, gaps from utility lines, or even through concrete which is naturally porous.
In extreme cases, the vapors may put humans at risk. If inhaled, those affected could encounter minor health concerns and even long-term effects. The issue of safety is always a concern, since in addition to inhalation of VOCs, these vapors can also become flammable. The degree of the vapors’ impact on human health involves factors that include its chemical concentration, ventilation, and the building’s occupancy.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has put in place measures to manage and eliminate vapor intrusion risks. The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) was implemented nationwide and provides a Federal “Superfund” to clean up abandoned sites with pollutants and contaminants. If not administered by a private party, the EPA takes control and mitigates vapor intrusion.
To regulate VI, the EPA has set standards for acceptable indoor air quality levels. Upon determining exposure and risk, there are a variety of mitigation methods to lessen the vapor effects and disturbances. At Land Science, we responded to a need in the industry with an effective and proven solution: an easily installable, effective barrier system to protect against chemicals like PCE, TCE, and Benzene.
Vapor intrusion mitigation may be a newer advancement in environmental technology today, but the Land Science team is staffed with experts from the environmental industry trained and knowledgeable in understanding and providing the highest level of protection to help improve air quality in new and existing structures. As leaders in the field, we are proud to provide the most innovative, groundbreaking, and cost-effective vapor intrusion barrier systems to reduce risk and liability while protecting your clients and their properties from VI exposure. Search our website to find out more.
Client Spotlight: Yen-Vy Van, Senior Hydrogeologist at Maul Foster & Alongi
When you ask Yen-Vy Van, Senior Hydrogeologist at Maul Foster & Alongi, Inc. (MFA), about her day-to-day responsibilities, it’s hard to believe that one person could do so much. That’s because her role at Maul Foster & Alongi, Inc., a leading environmental engineering and planning firm in the Pacific Northwest and valued REGENESIS® client, stretches beyond just investigating and remediating impacted sites. From preparing technical documents and reports, to project and client management, to proposal development and other key duties, Van’s involvement seems to touch on nearly every aspect of what MFA does for their clients. Shares Van, “I also manage aspects of client marketing, mentor junior staff members, and conduct field work.” With so many responsibilities, choosing what she enjoys most can be difficult, but a few come readily to mind. Continues Van, “I especially enjoy the technical aspects of my work, such as applying forensic analysis and groundwater modeling of contaminants during remedial investigations to complete a more thorough investigation and understanding of the transport and fate of contaminants impacting the subsurface. I also enjoy the collaborative work we do at MFA – working with and learning from other professionals such as planners, civil engineers, and remediation engineers amongst other specialized professionals.”
Choosing Environmental Remediation
Choosing a career in environmental remediation came somewhat naturally to Van, since her interest in groundwater resources began early on with her university studies. “Environmental engineering was a natural segue for me. As a geologist/hydrogeologist, my interests revolved around groundwater resources. The area of environmental remediation of the subsurface is complex and fascinating, and provides the opportunity to rigorously evaluate and investigate the subsurface regime including soils, groundwater, free product, and vapor. Plus, I love scientific investigations, research, technologies, and engineering.”
Van’s university studies include a B.S. from California State University of Long Beach, and a M.S. from California State University of Los Angeles. To stay abreast of the rapid changes in her industry, she enjoys the opportunities to continue technical education in the environmental investigation and remediation fields. These include governmental organizations ranging from the EPA’s CLU-IN and USGS, to professional organizations and remediation experts that include REGENESIS, and others which offer webinars and courses/trainings throughout the year. She goes on to say, “I try to fit them in as often as possible. I believe in staying engaged to continually improve my technical understanding and capabilities.” Living just south of Tacoma, WA, Van works out of MFA’s Seattle office, and travels on an as-needed basis. She also works with the company’s Bellingham, Vancouver, and Portland offices on occasion.
Working with REGENESIS to Ensure Client Success
When asked what she enjoys most about working with REGENESIS, Van points to the high level of technical knowledge she sees from the REGENESIS staff. Says Van, “The REGENESIS technical team is terrific for many reasons. This includes their expertise, versatility, and proven successes. REGENESIS’ technical sales managers understand not only the technical aspects of environmental remediation, but that the various applications have consequential effects on businesses. I also like that REGENESIS factors in the property usage during their remediation design.” In addition, Van appreciates their multifaceted approach. She continues, “The versatility and remedial solutions REGENESIS offers makes them a recognized expert. Also, their tiered approach to targeting the biological and chemical reactions of contaminants and requirements for microbes to aggressively breakdown contaminants has proven to be quite successful.” When it comes to specific REGENESIS products, Van points to a couple in particular. “We’ve had the most success with ORC Advanced® and 3-D Microemulsion®. We’ve been able to obtain the much coveted No Further Action determination from the Washington Department of Ecology for sites where we have applied these amendments. Clients appreciate the minimized disruptions to their properties’ usages. With respect to vapor intrusion issues, we’ve had successes with the installation of Land Science®’s Retro-Coat Vapor Intrusion Barrier System. The mitigation and improvements in indoor air quality that results after the installation of these sealants have enabled our clients to proceed with property transactions. Without these successful mitigation measures, our clients would not have been able to proceed with future transactions on these properties.”
Married for 23 years, Van and her husband have two daughters. “One is a junior at Washington State University and the other is a sophomore in high school. They keep us sane and comically insane at times!” In her free time, she enjoys playing racquetball and competing in regional and local tournaments, and she and the family enjoy backpacking and whitewater rafting. Gardening while listening to baseball games on the radio is another hobby. In her spare time she volunteers at the county’s local library and hopes to get involved in Habitat for Humanity and working with a children organization in the future.
Asked how she would encourage others to join the field of environmental sciences, she concludes by relating how much she enjoyed presenting to her daughter’s elementary and junior high schools. “I’ve presented an hour-long compressed introduction to geology, environmental science, environmental engineering and how these fields apply to our daily lives as well as the exciting projects we engage in” says Van. “The students are usually interested, engaged, and curious. I believe engaging students at these levels is a good start to have them consider the sciences, the environment, engineering, and technologies as potential fields to explore for personal and professional interests.”
REGENESIS is proud to have Yen-Vy Van, Senior Hydrogeologist at Maul Foster & Alongi, Inc., as a valued client, and appreciates her expertise in hydrogeology and environmental engineering, and its impact in providing successful remediation outcomes for REGENESIS and its clients.
Client Spotlight: Bruce Savage, Vice President, Director of Environmental Services at Geotechnical Consultants
For Bruce Savage, Vice President, Director of Environmental Services at Geotechnical Consultants, Inc. (GCI), a leading full-service, geotechnical engineering and environmental consulting firm, motivation comes easy in fulfilling his day-to-day responsibilities. At GCI, a valued Land Science® client, Bruce enjoys the satisfaction of working with clients to determine where concerns exist, and then develops and implements workable, cost-effective remedies that satisfy all parties. He achieves optimum results by working closely with real estate developers, property owners, their business partners and regulatory personnel to identify environmental contamination and the appropriate steps to remedy contamination. Shares Savage, “The goal is always to identify workable pathways to development using remedies that protect human health and the environment, meet regulatory requirements, and ensure future compliance and protectiveness.”
The path to a career in remediation
Savage’s path to his current position as Vice President, Director of Environmental Services began with his Bachelor of Science in Geology and Mineralogy from The Ohio State University. He followed that up with his Master’s in Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences from the University of Cincinnati. His academic achievements led to work experience as a field technician and a driller’s helper with GCI, nearly 30 years ago, then as an environmental geologist, prior to being promoted to Vice President. In addition, Savage received the Certified Professional designation from the Ohio EPA in 2003. When asked about how he initially chose a career in environmental remediation, he admits that in some ways, his career chose him. Continues Savage, “The truth is, this career found me. I was fortunate enough to have the right training at the right time, and be in the right place. Central Ohio has seen an amazing amount of urban revitalization in recent years, and GCI has experienced much of that work.” When asked what he enjoys most about his work, he points to the sense of being a difference-maker within his community and surrounding area. “The best part of my job,” he says, “Is working on and seeing new development projects and historic preservation happening all around Columbus.” And the biggest challenge? “Keeping up with project schedules!”
Residing in German Village, a historic district in Columbus, and a short drive to the GCI offices in Westerville, Ohio (just outside Columbus), Savage enjoys a close association with Land Science® employees, and is a strong advocate of its products as well. “Land Science® has consistently provided timely, effective remediation product solutions,” continues Savage. “For the most part, we use Geo-Seal® and Vapor Vent™, due to the fact that most of our sites are urban redevelopment projects where Vapor Intrusion (VI) is a concern. We recommended installation of a VI mitigation system at a former manufacturing site being redeveloped for apartments, and the owner selected the Geo-Seal® and Vapor Vent™ system. The remedy installation aided in the project receiving a Covenant Not to Sue from the Ohio EPA following our submittal of a No Further Action Letter,” Shares Savage. He continues, “In another instance, we recommended a floor sealing system for VI, and the owner selected the Retro-Coat™ system. At that site, indoor air contaminant concentrations were either eliminated or significantly reduced.”
Keeping pace with the vapor intrusion industry
To keep pace with the ever changing environmental remediation industry, particularly with regard to vapor intrusion, Savage regularly attends Ohio EPA-sponsored courses, and participates in webinars. Says Savage, “Ohio requires its VAP Certified Professionals to receive at least 12 hours of approved continuing education annually.” When it comes to identifying trends within the industry, he points to what he sees as a continued movement toward urban revitalization. “This will require creative solutions for soil, groundwater and vapor intrusion mitigation,” he says. “The vapor intrusion to indoor air pathways is receiving significant attention from the business and regulatory communities, and VI mitigation installations are becoming more and more common.” And as for what the future may hold for Geotechnical Consultants, Inc., he goes on to say it’s about service and solutions. “GCI’s philosophy has always been: provide our clients with great service and practical solutions for a reasonable fee, and in addition, provide our staff with personal and professional growth opportunities.”
Married for 35 years, Savage and his wife have three children and two grandchildren who “we enjoy spoiling.” When he has time away from his busy work schedule he enjoys learning about history and studying viniculture. He also manages to find time to serve as a Stephen Minister through his church, while supporting Gracehaven, The James Cancer Hospital, and other charities.
Change is inevitable
Since he works in such a fast-paced, industry, Savage realizes that change is inevitable, and says that over the past few decades he’s noticed a much higher degree of professionalism in environmental remediation. He concludes, “Since the 1980s the environmental consulting industry has gone from what I would call a sort of “garage-band” field, to a much more sophisticated group of professionals working on solutions to complex human health and regulatory issues.”
Land Science® is proud to have Bruce Savage, Vice President and Director of Environmental Services at Geotechnical Consultants Inc., as a valued client and partner in environmental remediation, and appreciates his vast knowledge and experience in providing successful remediation outcomes for Land Science® and its clients.
Client Spotlight: Kenneth S. Tramm, PhD, PG, CHMM, Founder of Modern Geosciences
An accomplished environmental professional, an author with a passion for textbook writing, a talented guitar playing musician, an entrepreneur, and a self-proclaimed difference-maker for the environment – all of these facets describe Kenneth S. Tramm, PhD, PG, CHMM. Dr. Tramm is the founder and General Manager of Modern Geosciences, a leading provider of environmental solutions, and a trusted Land Science client. When Kenneth founded Modern Geosciences in 2011, his goal was to build an environmental firm with a talented staff, focused on delivering innovative environmental solutions for its clients. Suffice it to say, Kenneth and his firm, based in Colleyville, Texas, a suburb of Ft. Worth, is indeed delivering on his objective of providing cost-effective solutions to environmental challenges for clients spanning a number of industry sectors.
Dr. Tramm’s Background and Experience with Land Science
Kenneth’s interest in impacting environmental remediation began in high school, where he developed an interest in earth sciences. Shares Kenneth, “When I learned I could apply engineering and geologic principals to earth sciences, it was a natural. Then at Texas A&M University, I was lucky enough to find a new degree program that mixed engineering, geology, and physical sciences into a combined degree. This gave me a good start to grow on.” After completing his Bachelors of Science in Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kenneth went on to earn his Masters and Doctorate of Science degrees in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington. Prior to launching Modern Geosciences, Kenneth worked as an Environmental Practice Leader, managing a variety of high-profile projects across the United States. When asked what he enjoys most about working with Land Science, Kenneth points to professional, collaborative team-work. “The Land Science technical staff are always helpful to bounce ideas off of”, says Kenneth. “We use several Land Science products in conjunction with traditional source removal and plume management. We do a great deal of Vapor Intrusion Control System (VICS) design, installation oversight and confirmatory testing. While we have used other products, Geo-Seal® has been a great off-the-shelf tool for us because it easily allows us to update our designs to better reflect permeation rates or specialty foundations our clients need.” Underscoring the success of Geo-Seal®, Kenneth points out that in some years his firm has specified over a million square feet, and that the product has great acceptance from both regulators and equity partners.
Beyond the Environmental Industry
While managing Modern Geosciences no doubt keeps him busy, Kenneth manages to find time for one of his favorite hobbies- playing the guitar, a passion that eventually blossomed into playing with a band while at Texas A&M, and even led to radio airtime and a phone call from legendary record label Epic Records. Continues Kenneth, “We had the chance to play some cool gigs and made it on the radio, but as they say… the difference between a large pizza and a musician is that a large pizza can feed a family of five!” He also stays busy donating his time to several charities and helping shape college coursework/professional mentoring at Texas A&M and the University of Texas at Arlington. “There is no better feeling than selflessly helping another person”, shares Kenneth. “I think the old adage from Winston Churchill of ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’ says it best.” Married and with three children, he has also found time to author a textbook, Environmental Due Diligence: A Professional Handbook. Adds Kenneth, “It has been so cool to see it added to a lot of college curriculums. It’s a collection of all the things I wished I had access to when I was just starting out and learning.” True to his form of staying current with his work, Kenneth hopes to have the next edition out in 2018.
It needs to be 100%
Kenneth’s day-to-day responsibilities vary widely, and this variety is just one aspect of what he enjoys in his work. Shares Kenneth, “Simply put, I assist clients in problem solving. This could be designing an air compliance program one day, designing an investigation program for a refinery that was mothballed in the 1940s the next, or on another day, performing a building stress test to see if we can tackle vapor intrusion. In between the large and interesting projects are plenty of basic due diligence, remediation, and regulatory projects too. Each presents its own challenges and requires that you never underestimate what you are doing. I firmly believe if you are going to do anything, it needs to be 100%.” To stay current with the constant flow of information and best practices in environmental engineering, Kenneth and his staff participate in several in-house and professional training events throughout the year. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Texas at Arlington’s Civil Engineering department, which requires him to stay updated on the various dynamics of his field.
Cleaning up Brownfields
When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Kenneth is quick to point out that making a difference by creating solutions that ensure safe reuse of brownfield properties is extremely gratifying. “I like to think we make a difference,” he says. “While sometimes it may seem like a small step, everything we do to assist another job being created, help a part of the earth be a little less polluted, or help a client manage environmental risk is rewarding. It is always fun to drive by old sites that have now been cleaned up, closed, and put back into use.” Although Modern Geosciences has enjoyed success, Kenneth still sees room for improvement, and true to his nature, is always looking to take his firm to the next level. Shares Kenneth, “I really want to focus on mentoring great people and doing great work. We need to keep our eyes on delivering cost-effective solutions and growing our client base through direct experience and testimonials. So far it seems to be working.” As for the future of the bioremediation industry as a whole, Kenneth sees innovation as a catalyst for even more effective treatment solutions. He concludes, “While we have some great basic tools for enhancing bioremediation, there are always new approaches and site-specific scenarios which require us to get creative. I am not sure there are trends to follow on this, but I do see more and more firms considering options today that were fringe ideas just a few years ago.”
Land Science is proud to have Dr. Kenneth Tramm, Principal and General Manager of Modern Geosciences, as a preferred client and partner in environmental remediation, and appreciates his leadership and comprehensive approach in providing successful remediation outcomes for Land Science and its clients.
Land Science Presents a Webinar with Dr. Kenneth Tramm on Vapor Intrusion’s Impact on Environmental Due Diligence Industry
Land Science is pleased to present a webinar with Dr. Kenneth S. Tramm, a founding Principal with Texas-based engineering firm, Modern Geosciences. Dr. Tramm specializes in air quality monitoring, environmental due diligence, risk-based closures, and remediation design.
In this free webinar Dr. Tramm’s presentation will provide us with an update on how Vapor Intrusion is impacting the Environmental Due Diligence industry.
Joining Dr. Tramm will be Thomas Szocinski, Director of Vapor Intrusion at Land Science, who will review vapor intrusion mitigation solutions currently available, including Geo-Seal® Vapor Intrusion Barrier and Retro-Coat™ Vapor Intrusion Coating.
This webinar has already taken place.
About the Presenters
Kenneth S. Tramm, PhD, PG, CHMM
Principal, Modern Geosciences
Dr. Tramm is a founding Principal with Modern Geosciences, a Texas-based engineering firm. His day-to-day work includes air quality monitoring, environmental due diligence, risk-based closures, and remediation design. Prior to founding Modern Geosciences he directed environmental due diligence for two international engineering firms with project experience in over 30 states and territories. He holds a masters and doctorate in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington and a bachelors in Bioenvironmental Sciences from Texas A&M University. He is a licensed Professional Geoscientist in Texas and Louisiana, a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, and adjunct professor in the UTA Civil Engineering department.
He is also the author of Environmental Due Diligence: A Professional Handbook which provides a comprehensive guide to the due diligence process. A second edition is in the works and hopefully will be out later this year. Dr. Tramm also currently serves on boards at UTA and Texas A&M helping to enhance curriculum for the next generation of Environmental Professionals.
Thomas Szocinski, CEP
Director of Vapor Intrusion, Land Science
Thomas Szocinski is the Director of Vapor Intrusion of the Land Science® division of REGENESIS, Inc. In his role, Tom provides executive leadership, market strategy and sales support, while further strengthening relationships with state and federal regulators, applicators and environmental consultants. Tom is a nationally recognized vapor intrusion expert with over 14 years’ experience as an environmental scientist, focusing on vapor intrusion assessment and mitigation, remediation, site assessment, and Brownfield site management. He has served on both state and federal regulatory vapor intrusion review boards, assisting with development of vapor intrusion and mitigation guidance, regulations, and exposure criteria. He has designed and implemented numerous nationally recognized and award winning vapor mitigation systems across the United States for both private and government sites. Tom earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Tom enjoys the outdoors from hunting and fishing, to hiking and camping with his wife and children.