Brownfields

What is a Brownfield Site?

A Brownfield is a property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. It is estimated that there are more than 450,000 brownfields in the U.S. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties increases local tax bases, facilitates job growth, utilizes existing infrastructure, takes development pressures off of undeveloped, open land, and both improves and protects the environment. Learn more about types of sites and contaminants reported at brownfields and community actions for their cleanup and reuse.

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Brownfield contaminants

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• Lead: A common contaminant found in paints

• Petroleum: A common contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Asbestos: A common contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): A contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): A contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): A contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Arsenic: A contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs): A contaminant found at brownfield sites

• Tributyl tins: A contaminant found at brownfield sites

 

The specific contaminants found at a brownfield site depend on the industry or commercial facility that was previously located there. For example, dry cleaners and gas stations can produce high levels of subsurface contaminants.