Design of a variation to a remediation project in compliance to Ministerial Decree 152/06 (art.242)

The aim of this thesis is to conduct a detailed analysis of the administrative process and technical aspects of an ongoing variation to an approved remediation project. In contrast to the authorized plan, the variation proposes the division of the remediation goals for soil and groundwater into two distinct phases, in accordance with Article 242, paragraph 7-bis, of Legislative Decree 152 of April 3, 2006 (Environmental Code). This regulation allows for partial certification of soil remediation before the completion of groundwater remediation, provided that environmental safety and the quality of other environmental matrices are not compromised. The thesis focuses on the regulatory and technical analysis of the variation, with particular emphasis on the temporal management of the interventions, the new location of the Points of Compliance (POC), and their monitoring for the completion of groundwater remediation. Additionally, the possibility of reusing the remediated area before the groundwater objectives are achieved is examined, through the establishment of an authorized landfill within the restored area. A site-specific hydrogeological study and the annual qualitative analysis of groundwater serve as key tools to ensure compliance with environmental objectives and proper management of residual risk. The results demonstrate that the proposed variation allows for a more efficient use of the remediated area without compromising environmental safety standards. Furthermore, it ensures the continuity of the remediation process in compliance with current legislation and in alignment with the goals of the authorized project.