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To illustrate, I have had many conversations with thought leaders on
this subject. When I start talking about bene昀椀cial soil reuse, it is as if I
am speaking “martian.” Inevitably, however, I have witnessed these
individuals experience an OMG moment as they learn about excess soils
regulations and guidance. But they o昀昀er no rationale for not including
bene昀椀cial soil reuse among the plethora of elevated practices they promote
in a wide variety of industries.
I have yet to experience this newfound awareness accompanied by action
among circular economy stewards. Perhaps the enormity of including
earthworks is too daunting or perhaps what is needed is a little push.
The circular economy world has signi昀椀cant 昀椀nancial, human, academic
and marketing resources when compared with the excess soil industry. To
have access to some of these assets to study soil reuse practices and improve
outcomes would be of great bene昀椀t as little of such research is currently
being conducted. Recognition of the bene昀椀ts of responsible earthworks also
brings our industry’s e昀昀orts into greater alignment with the ESG, net-zero
and reduced carbon emission aspirations of the many corporations and
associations that we interact with daily and aligns us with them.
Next steps for soil stewardship
If recognition as part of the circular economy is a worthwhile objective, each of
us has a role to play. Practitioners in the soil chain of custody must take every
opportunity to remind those with whom they interact of the circular economy
aspects of their endeavors. Large associations and companies in the industry
that subscribe to these practices must lobby for inclusion in organizations that
are dedicated to sustainable strategies.
Finally, we all must endeavor to ensure that the right soil goes to the right place.
The bene昀椀cial reuse of materials of any kind requires oversight and provenance
as to the quality of the materials to be reused.
Although we may be late boarding the Circular Economy boat, by demonstrating
a commitment to responsible soil reuse, we have a greater chance of being
invited aboard.
Je昀昀 Goldman is one of Canada’s foremost authorities on excess
soil management policy. He is a Principal of SoilFLO Inc., a
world-leading provider of earthworks management software.
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