Detailed geo-ecological investigation in Riga

Project structure

1. 01

   Challenge

   The site needed a detailed geo-ecological investigation, together with a review of earlier surveys, to define the extent and volume of the contamination. Planning and fieldwork were complicated by the site's location within railway infrastructure, which brought additional technical and organisational constraints and required the investigation methods and schedule to be adapted.

2. 02

   Solution

   The investigation drew on 35 LIF probing points, measuring contamination intensity every 2 cm down the vertical profile. More than 30 boreholes were also drilled to collect soil and groundwater samples and determine pollutant concentrations. In wells where petroleum products had accumulated, the thickness of the floating layer was measured. All samples were analysed in an accredited laboratory.

3. 03

   Result

   Comprehensive information on the spread and volume of contamination across the 5.9 ha site was compiled and assessed. From the investigation and laboratory results, 3D contamination maps were produced, showing the spatial distribution, intensity and spread of the contamination both horizontally and vertically. The results give a sound basis for planning the future management and remediation of the site.