What Is a Conceptual Site Model?
When investigating and remediating contaminated sites, large volumes of data are generated on soil, groundwater, contaminants and environmental conditions. A Conceptual Site Model (or CSM) brings this information together in a structured way and presents the key relationships at a site in a clear and accessible format.
A CSM describes where contaminants are located, how they may migrate, which environmental receptors may be affected and what risks may arise as a result. It combines monitoring data, specialist knowledge and assumptions into a coherent overall picture, providing the basis for informed environmental management decisions.
In addition, a CSM supports communication between different stakeholders. Risk assessors, geoscientists, remediation engineers, authorities and the wider public all benefit from a shared knowledge base for evaluating site conditions and planning appropriate measures.