Land is considered to be contaminated when hazardous substances are present at levels above background levels and they are likely to pose an immediate or long-term risk to human health or the environment.
People, animals and the environment can be exposed to hazardous substances on contaminated land in a number of ways, including:
- direct contact with contaminated soil
- swallowing food or water from contaminated environments
- breathing vapours or contaminated dust
As well as endangering health, these substances can:
- limit the use of land
- cause corrosion that may threaten building structures
- reduce land value.
This series of excellent brochures provide advice on identifying and assessing contaminated land.
For further information on contaminated sites contact the Advisor, Hazardous Substances, Hawke's Bay Regional Council (06) 833-8027.