What is RCRA Reuse and Redevelopment?
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About Reuse and Redevelopment
The Resource Conservation Recovery Act program, managed by U.S. EPA and its state partners, oversees almost 4,000 cleanups across the country. Reuse and redevelopment means that a new use of the facility is occurring (e.g., industrial to commercial) and that the developed facility is being used by customers, visitors, employees, and residents. Examples of productive use of a facility after cleanup include:
- Industrial reuse.
- Commercial development.
- Recreational use.
- Residential housing.
- Habitat restoration.
Cleaned-up RCRA Corrective Action facilities can support redevelopment and community revitalization. By using the appropriate tools and remediation, facilities can achieve dual purposes -- cleaning up facilities and, at the same time, enhancing communities and the environment. Some areas may also be appropriate for redevelopment of native habitat. Wildlife habitat restoration can includes both market and non-market benefits. Increased property values in areas adjacent to greenways, river buffers, or prairies, are examples of market benefits. Non-market benefits include learning centers, recreational areas for the community, and ecological enhancement.
Redeveloped facilities can provide economic, environmental, and social benefits. Facilities can serve as a catalyst to support revitalizing and strengthening a community. RCRA supports the safe reuse of RCRA Corrective Action facilities as an integral part of the EPA’s mission to support healthy communities and advance environmental protection. State and federal RCRA program managers can assist with reuse planning in many ways.
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