In the heart of Croatia, an old industrial site tells a story of environmental challenge and technological innovation. The decommissioned Jugovinil factory, once a hub of plastics and chemical production, now stands as a brownfield site, a term used to describe abandoned or underutilized industrial or commercial properties where redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. This site, nestled in the city of Kaštela, is not just a relic of the past; it’s a testament to the power of modern technology in managing environmental challenges, particularly those involving naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) residues.
Želimir Veinović, a researcher from the University of Zagreb’s Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, has been delving into the complexities of this site. His work, published in the journal ‘Rudarsko-geološko-naftni Zbornik’—translated to English as the Mining-Geological-Oil Journal—highlights the crucial role of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in managing such sites.
Brownfield sites are a significant concern for countries in the European Union, and Veinović’s research offers a promising approach. “GIS technology allows us to visualize and analyze the distribution of pollutants on two levels: the representation of all brownfield sites in a country and the detailed mapping of material and pollutant distribution within each site,” Veinović explains. This dual-level approach is a game-changer, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions about remediation and redevelopment.
The Jugovinil site is a complex case, with a mix of coal ash, slag, brought-in soil material, and construction waste. Veinović’s team focused on measuring the concentrations of three radionuclides from the 232Th decay chain. Using ArcGIS Pro, they created detailed maps that identified hotspots and potential sources of pollution. The geostatistical method Empirical Bayesian Kriging was employed for interpolation, providing a robust analysis of the data.
The implications of this research extend beyond the Jugovinil site. As Veinović notes, “The methods and tools we’ve developed can be applied to other brownfield sites, not just in Croatia but across the globe.” This is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where NORM residues are a common byproduct of various processes. Effective management of these residues is crucial for both environmental sustainability and commercial viability.
The research also underscores the importance of remediation and cautious urbanization. By identifying hotspots and understanding the distribution of pollutants, stakeholders can prioritize areas for remediation and make informed decisions about future land use. This approach not only mitigates environmental risks but also unlocks the commercial potential of brownfield sites, turning liabilities into assets.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for effective management of NORM residues will only grow. Veinović’s research provides a valuable toolkit for addressing this challenge, offering a blueprint for the future of brownfield site management. In a world grappling with environmental challenges, this work is a beacon of hope, demonstrating how technology and innovation can pave the way for a sustainable future.