Geological- and Chemical-Based Environmental Risk Factor Sustainability Model

Abstract

An environmental sustainability model that integrates natural and anthropogenic factors was developed and tested for 10 years. The model is composed of calculated geological risk factors, chemical risk factors, and operational aspects of environmental regulatory requirements which are integrated into a comprehensive environmental sustainability model. The model was tested at 67 operating industrial manufacturing facilities in 12 countries over a period of 10 years. The results achieved included measured reductions of environmental impacts to air, land, and water from 5% to more than 95% of operational aspects compared to pre-model values. A significant catalyst for model success was identifying and applying innovative leadership and management principles that were required to modify business objectives and culture from purely capitalist incentives and objectives to sustainability-oriented goals. This was accomplished through a clear and understandable model, stated objectives, incentives, rewards and penalties, measuring results, data analysis, identifying and communicating areas where improvement was needed, model adaptations, transparent communication and feedback, and flexible timelines. The results indicate that the model can be scaled from the parcel to global level, assuming management and leadership principles are in place and properly supported.  Keywords: Sustainability model, contaminant risk, geologic vulnerability