Superfund FAQs

What is the Superfund Alternative Approach?

The Superfund Alternative Approach involves the same process for cleanup as being on the NPL without being formally listed on the NPL. It still follows the superfund process but can potentially save the time and resources. If a PRP enters into an SA approach agreement with EPA, there is no need for EPA to list the site on the NPL.

For more information, see U.S. EPA’s webpage:

Superfund Alternative Approach | U.S. EPA

Why do I keep hearing about cleanup standards being updated? Were they not protective before?

Research into potential health effects of contaminants is an ongoing process. Risk based decisions are made with the best information available at the time, and as we learn more standards can be adjusted to be more accurate. The FSRS defaults to using the more recent and conservative standards available to protect the health of the public and the environment.

How can I know if I live near a Superfund Site? What can I do to learn about a Superfund Site nearby?

U.S. EPA’s and Illinois EPA have multiple interactive maps which allow you to find nearby superfund sites. Those maps can be found here: Search for Superfund Sites Where You Live | U.S. EPA

What is FOIA? Why do I keep getting referred to it when I ask to see site information?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a law which states public agency records must be accessible to the public if they send a written request. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140, Section 2(c), a public record is any records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, electronic communications recorded information and all other documentary materials pertaining to the transaction of public business, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared by or for, or having been or being used by, received by, in the possession of or under the control of any public body.

Not all records can be accessed by submitting a FOIA request. For example, personally identifiable information, such as the names and address of members of the public, cannot be released.  For this reason, project managers cannot directly give out reports in response to public inquiries unless those reports have already been reviewed and found to be releasable under FOIA.

If you wish to submit a FOIA request, instructions and links can be found here: Freedom of Information Act

What does ‘Hazardous waste’ mean?

Hazardous waste in the context of Superfund refers to specific types of solid waste (as defined in 35 Illinois Administrative Code [35 IAC] Part 721.102) which is dangerous or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment. Hazardous waste has a specific legal definition, making it subject to RCRA Subtitle C regulations, section 35 IAC 721.103. The characteristics of hazardous waste are listed in 35 IAC 721.110, and the criteria for something to be listed as hazardous waste are in 35 IAC 721.111. Non-hazardous waste can still have negative impacts on human health or the environment but is regulated differently. Common sources are industrial manufacturing process wastes, batteries, slag piles, and similar. For more information on how Hazardous waste is determined, see the website below: Learn the Basics of Hazardous Waste | U.S. EPA

What is beneficial Re-Use?

Sites that have been determined to have acceptable risk (typically less than one additional cancer case in 1,000,000) may be put into beneficial re-use. Beneficial re-use means Superfund sites are now safe to be used by the local community. Types of re-use depend on the community in question, the degree of cleanup, and any land use restrictions (e.g. residential or industrial commercial). Common examples are as solar farms, nature preserves, or for commercial businesses. For more information on site re-use, see the list of properties here: Superfund Sites in Reuse in Illinois | U.S. EPA