The Challenge
EHS Support was engaged to support the safe and sustainable management of over 3 GL/yr of treated water generated during the closure phase of a major industrial facility. The key challenge was to identify a long-term solution that would protect surrounding groundwater systems and sensitive environmental receptors while meeting strict regulatory requirements.
Our Approach
EHS Support delivered a fully integrated assessment and design solution, including:
- A detailed hydrogeological assessment to characterise groundwater systems and inform infiltration feasibility
- Evaluation of treated water quality and compatibility with receiving aquifer conditions
- Development of a risk-based infiltration design supported by numerical groundwater and geochemical modelling
- Identification and assessment of potential impacts to groundwater-dependent ecosystems and existing groundwater users
- Design of a comprehensive monitoring and management framework to support staged commissioning
The project was underpinned by an adaptive management approach, allowing ongoing refinement of operations based on monitoring data and performance against defined environmental criteria.
The Outcome
- Achieved auditor approval for a managed aquifer recharge solution supporting long‑term site closure objectives
- Enabled the safe reintroduction of treated water to the subsurface with no adverse impacts to environmental receptors
- Established a robust monitoring and response framework, ensuring continued protection of groundwater systems
- Delivered a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to surface discharge or offsite disposal