What is an Environmental Site Assessment?

1 min read.

 

When embarking on a business deal, conducting an Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is a requirement in the due diligence process. But what exactly does an ESA include and why is it important?

An ESA involves a comprehensive review of the environmental conditions at a specific property or location. Its primary objective is to assess potential environmental risks and liabilities associated with the property in question. By undertaking an ESA, businesses can identify any existing or potential environmental concerns that may necessitate costly cleanups or legal consequences if left unsolved.

The ESA process includes two phases and is conducted by qualified environmental professionals who employ industry best practices.

Phase 1: A visual and historical inspection of the property.

During this phase, environmental consultants thoroughly examine historical records, conduct interviews, and perform a comprehensive on-site assessment. The goal is to identify any indicators of contamination and determine whether further investigation is necessary.

Phase 2: A comprehensive analysis involving detailed sampling and testing.

Phase 2 is initiated to gather more in-depth information of the property, including the collection of soil, water, or air samples. It is to assess the extent of any contamination, evaluate risks to human health and environment, and provide recommendations.

The insights from an ESA are invaluable to business owners as they provide a clear understanding of the environmental conditions and associated risks tied to a property. This knowledge enables businesses to proactively manage potential environmental risks, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and make sound informed decisions regarding property transactions or ongoing operations.

Reference

Understanding Environmental Site Assessments. Beacon Hill Associates. (2022, April 6). https://b-h-a.com/blog/understanding-environmental-site-assessments/  


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