Buyer Beware

ZERO WASTE is the recycling of all materials back into nature or the marketplace in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

BUYER BEWARE

To investigate property, owners can do the following:

Check EPA's Site Information page. From this Web page, you can view or download information about the nation's hazardous waste sites. These sites can be as small as a single contaminated well. Don't be surprised if a hazardouse waste site is located near you.
Talk to neighbors and local municipal officials to check for a history of dumping on your specific property and the surround area. Contamination from buried waste can migrate off-site.
Check local ordinances for prohibitions against dumping of construction/demolition debris. See: ZWA's Open Dumping.
Check County Aerial Photographs (if available) over the last several decades (may date back to the 1960's) for changes in topography that could indicate dumping activities.
Conduct Soil, Water (ground & surface), Air (landfill gases), testing for toxics, including radioactivity:
- SOIL - EPA's Soil Screening Guidance (very comprehensive)
  - GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) to check for buried waste and soil disturbances
- WATER - ZWA's Water & Septic
- AIR - EPA's Air Toxics Website
- Geiger Counters to check for Radioactivity
- Note: ZWA does not endorse the product companies above.

If you suspect you are suffering from living on contaminated property, consult a health professional in environmental illnesses. See: Health Impacts for referral information.

Environmental Consultants: Hire a firm outside of your county. If you hire a firm within your county, it could be counter-productive. The consultant may be closely connected to other local businesses and politicians. They may not represent your interests to the best of their ability. Also, check for certification (see below):

The National Association of Environmental Professionals / Certification program
American Academy of Environmental Engineers The American Academy of Environmental Engineers operates the nation's first and oldest specialty certification program to board-certify those engineers with expertise in one of seven specialties of environmental engineering practice for the public's benefit.
The Institute of Professional Environmental Practice (IPEP) The QEP establishes standards for the environmental professional and provides a career track for new professionals entering the field. It does not take the place of specialized certifications or registrations, but rather is a unique credential that serves to link and coordinate environmental practice.

RELATED ZWA LINKS: