Congress explores how America's 450,000 brownfield sites could become the critical infrastructure foundation for the nation's AI and technological future, revealing a bipartisan strategy to transform contaminated industrial lands.
"If you build it, they will come," says Russell Taylor, a certified crop adviser and agronomist, referring to the beneficial microorganisms that will eventually recolonize restored soils.
Environmental scientists have discovered that simply switching to new formulations isn't enough – the toxic chemicals leave behind invisible layers that can contaminate new systems.
The next phase involves finalizing Memorandums of Understanding between the DEP, municipalities, and BDA Steering Committees, establishing frameworks for site remediation and redevelopment plans.
A new bill in Maine's legislature would require health insurers to cover blood tests for PFAS exposure, potentially helping thousands of residents in contaminated areas access critical health screening.