GPRG Research Themes
Our research is grouped under several overlapping themes :
- Natural attenuation of pollutants
- Restoration science and practice
- Biogeochemical processes
- Catchment science and management
These themes integrate multidisciplinary experimental research and engineering applications through laboratory, field and modelling studies. Details of individual members research projects can be found by following the project portfolio link.
Natural attenuation of pollutants
Natural attenuation is the risk-based management of contaminated land and groundwater using the combined effects of biological, chemical and physical processes, which occur naturally in the subsurface environment.
Restoration science and practice
There is a growing acceptance of monitored natural attenuation and risk based solutions to contaminant problems, however, there is still a huge need for the development and validation of new and improved remediation technologies. At GPRG we are interested in working with the subsurface environment, rather than despite it; this requires a good understanding of the subsurface and risk to receptors, gained through novel site investigation and modelling.
Restoration Science and Practice
Biogeochemical processes
This area of research aims to understand the relationships between the geochemistry of a system and the living organisms (animal or plants) existing in it. We are focusing on the study of cellular interactions with the environment and chemical compounds (metals, nutrients and organic compounds) at molecular scale.
Catchment science and management
This research theme operates at the large scale where science is used to inform policy and practice of government, the Environment Agency and local government. The GPRG works closely in this field with the Catchment Science Centre.