New approaches towards promoting the application of innovative bioremediation technologies

During 1995-96, the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Cooperation Working Group (ITRC), in conjunction with the Colorado Center for Environmental Management (CCEM), performed a series of case studies in six states regarding regulatory acceptance of innovative technologies. The ITRC, consists of 22 states and was formed as a working group of a federal advisory committee. ITRC selected in situ bioremediation (ISB), involving injection of additives to ground water (i.e., engineered ISB), as the example innovative technology. Interviews conducted jointly by ITRC member state and CCEM representatives revealed legislative, regulatory and administrative approaches used by the states to overcome regulatory barriers to demonstration and deployment of engineered ISB. Successful state approaches included: innovative technology support groups within state cleanup agencies; state interagency committees to encourage specific innovative technologies; concurrent evaluation of conventional and innovative remedies; selection of innovative remedy with a conventional backup technology; state financial guarantee in event of failure of innovative technology; waiver of permit requirements for injection; flexible permits; and centralization of cleanup authority and ground water protection into one state agency. A detailed report of the case studies is available through CCEM (ITRC/CCEM 1996).