CSC Remediation & Mitigation Strategies 2

Question 1

Which in-situ remediation technique uses microorganisms injected into contaminated groundwater to break down chlorinated solvents?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced bioremediation

Answer

Enhanced bioremediation introduces electron donors and specialized microbes (e.g., Dehalococcoides) to degrade chlorinated solvents like PCE and TCE in place.

Question 2

A site contaminated with arsenic-laden soil is treated by mixing iron-based amendments into the soil to immobilize the contaminant. This approach is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Chemical stabilization/solidification

Answer

Chemical stabilization uses amendments like iron oxyhydroxides to bind heavy metals such as arsenic, reducing their mobility and bioavailability.

Question 3

Which metric is most commonly used to evaluate the effectiveness of a carbon offset project over time?

Accepted Answer

Permanence and additionality scores

Answer

Carbon offset quality is judged primarily on permanence (long-term storage) and additionality (emissions reductions beyond business-as-usual).

Question 4

A coastal municipality wants to reduce storm surge damage using nature-based solutions. Which strategy would be most effective?

Accepted Answer

Restoring and expanding mangrove and wetland buffers

Answer

Mangroves and coastal wetlands attenuate wave energy, trap sediment, and sequester carbon, making them highly effective nature-based coastal defenses.

Question 5

When applying the mitigation hierarchy, which step should be addressed FIRST before considering offsets?

Accepted Answer

Avoidance of environmental impact

Answer

The mitigation hierarchy prioritizes avoid, minimize, restore, and offset in that order — avoidance of harm is always the first and preferred step.

(CSC) Certified Sustainability Consultant Practice Test

(CSC) Certified Sustainability Consultant Practice Test

CSC Remediation & Mitigation Strategies 2