AdRem: An Integrated Approach for Adaptive Remediation

Abstract

Abandoned industrial sites are generally characterized by soil and subsoil contamination. The paradigm currently employed for their remediation is “tabula rasa”, i.e., remediation of the entire site before its repurpose. However, this method is not economically, socially, or technologically sustainable: it delays the reuse of large areas, often well-connected to infrastructures, whose reuse may prevent further soil consumption. A possible solution to this problem is the application of adaptive reuse principles. This study, conducted at FULL (Future Urban Legacy Lab) in Politecnico di Torino, presents an interdisciplinary approach to spatialize, visualize, and manage interactions between reclamation and urban design for the transformation of contaminated urban areas. The core is based on a decision support parametric toolkit, named AdRem, developed to compare available remediation techniques and schematic urban design solutions. AdRem uses a 3D modeling interface and VPL scripting. Required input data are a geometric description of the site, data on the contamination status, viable remediation techniques, and associated features, and schematic urban design recommendations. A filtering process selects the techniques compatible with the site use foreseen. The output is an optimized remediation and reuse plan that can support an interdisciplinary discussion on possible site regeneration options.

An Integrated SWOT-PESTLE-AHP Model Assessing Sustainability in Adaptive Reuse Projects

“…Della Spina [87], pointed up a multilevel process able to support optimizing investment choices for the efficient allocation of public resources with reference to adaptive reuse of unused historical public buildings. Palma et al [88], using a 3D modeling interface and visual programming language scripting approach, presented an optimized remediation and reuse plan able to support the discussion on possible site regeneration options. Efforts have also been undertaken to further add inputs to the wider discussion on adaptive reuse using fuzzy sets theory [89][90][91].…”

The Transformative Potential of Ruins: A Tool for a Nonlinear Design Perspective in Adaptive Reuse

“…Figure 18 includes "polluted site" as a decay stage, on the basis that site conditions could trigger or not adaptation projects. A growing literature argues that site conditions are fundamental to deliver an adaptation project, especially in postindustrial sites [18,40,41]. A prominent example is a project in Duisburg Nord by Latz architects [42].…”

Improved Delivery of Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron Particles and Simplified Design Tools for Effective Aquifer Nanoremediation

“…Soil and groundwater remediation have been shifting from ex situ to in situ techniques to reduce remediation cost and time, energy demand, and environmental impacts [1,2]. Among in situ techniques, the subsurface injection of reactive micro-or nanoparticles-socalled nanoremediation-is becoming a mature technology for the treatment of contaminated aquifer systems.…”