Subtitle D regulations have increased costs to site owners of coal ash facilities. With the onset of Subtitle D regulating how coal ash is disposed of, there comes an array of new regulations and costs that site owners are having to deal with, including the proper construction of containment systems to meet Subtitle D criteria. Whenever there are new regulations, there is often an immediate kneejerk reaction that is not thought through. Owners, consultants, and design engineers with a commodity mindset push to find a 'quick fix' that meets the regulatory standards but does little to ensure long-term viability of reducing long-term risk. The solid waste industry went through the same learning curve and have had nearly 30 years ago to refine their approach. Successful owners have developed an asset mindset that is significantly different from the commodity mindset in that it actively manages the asset to mitigate the potential for long-term risks and costs. This paper illustrates how and why to look at containment systems as an asset as well as the benefits of doing so. Geosynthetics should not be acquired as a construction material/commodity, it is an asset. Geosynthetic systems are crucial components to closure projects that can either protect from or create major environmental liabilities. This study reviewed multiple completed geosynthetic projects constructed throughout the United States that vary in size, intended use, materials and outcomes.
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