Groundwater Pollution and Remediation

This lecture discusses the widespread dioxin pollution uncovered in Lausanne, Switzerland, raising concerns about health consequences, clean-up costs, and the extent of the problem. It explores the historical pollution carried out over 30-40 years, the surprising findings in various regions with incineration plants, and the need for urgent clean-up of hazardous landfill sites. The instructor emphasizes the importance of legislation requiring the clean-up of contaminated sites to protect people's health and the environment. The lecture also covers the challenges, costs, and strategies involved in remediation, such as the 'polluter pays' principle, the use of cutoff walls, and the application of bioremediation techniques.