There are nine EPA evaluation criteria used to determine a cleanup option. The first two of these criteria have absolute weight, meaning that the others are considered only after these first two have been met.
Threshold Criteria (must be met):
- Overall protection of human health and the environment; the cleanup option must attain a certain level of protectiveness.
- Compliance with state and federal standards and regulations. Where impossible to meet, a waiver may be considered.
Balancing Criteria (must be considered):
- Long-term effectiveness and permanence of the remedy
- Reduction of toxicity, mobility and volume
- Short-term effectiveness
- Implementability (Is the remedy doable?)
- Capital, operating and maintenance costs
Modifying criteria (must also be considered):
- State acceptance: Acceptance of the plan by state officials and government leaders.
- Community acceptance: What do residents in the immediate area want done with the site?