A graphical Conceptual Site Model (CSM) is a vital early-stage tool in contaminated land investigations. It visually integrates site data—such as contamination sources, infrastructure, geology, groundwater, drainage, and receptors—to guide sampling and decision-making. Used in plan and cross-section views, it clarifies site dynamics, supports risk assessments, and aligns stakeholders.

Contamination is the presence of harmful substances in soil, water, or air. Contaminated land is land where those substances pose a serious or material risk to health or the environment. In contrast, clean earth is natural soil, rock, or sand free from waste or hazardous contaminants—safe for reuse and exempt from regulation.

Having a clear and simple definition of what constitutes clean earth or clean fill seems like a no-brainer, but it is something that has...

When completing a contaminated land investigation, you may need to use data or reports written by someone else or rely on past work your...

The Invisible Hand. The force that leads to socially beneficial outcomes through the actions of selfish individuals... and it’s not the...

Like it or not first impressions count. There is nothing more depressing than opening a report and reading "XYZ was engaged to conduct a...

Updated 22 September 2025 Contaminated land auditors  are independent professionals approved under Queensland’s Environmental Protection...

In Queensland, contaminated land auditors fill the role of independent certifiers of contaminated land investigations and related work on...

Queenslanders know Queensland is special, and when it comes to contaminated land audits and assessments, it's no different. Contaminated...

When building infrastructure, passing through, over or under a contamianted site can cause significant delays and increased costs if not...