Which is the correct sequence of components in an environmental cleanup?

• A. Site assessment, Remedy implementation, Site investigation, Evaluation of remedial alternatives, Remedy selection
• B. Site assessment, Site investigation, Evaluation of remedial alternatives, Remedy selection, Remedy implementation
• C. Site investigation, Site assessment, Remedy selection, Evaluation of remedial alternatives, Remedy implementation
• D. Remedy implementation, Site assessment, Site investigation, Remedy selection, Evaluation of remedial alternatives

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to build knowledge and choices in a logical, risk-based order before acting. You begin with a site assessment to understand the existence and scope of potential contamination and to set cleanup objectives. Next, a site investigation collects detailed data on contaminants, extent, and exposure pathways so you truly know what you’re dealing with. Once you have data, you evaluate remedial alternatives, weighing how effective each option could be, how feasible it is, and what it would cost. After comparing options, you select the most appropriate remedy. Finally, you implement the chosen remedy and monitor outcomes to ensure the targets are met.

Other sequences skip steps or place action before understanding the problem, which isn’t how cleanup decisions are made.