A review of brownfields revitalisation and reuse research in the US over three decades

ABSTRACT Over the past 30 years, US-based research on contaminated and potentially-contaminated sites, or brownfields, has grown from defining the scope and size of the environmental, health and economic risks posed by abandoned manufacturing sites to exploring and documenting site-specific and area-wide impacts of their cleanup and revitalisation. From early and varied research on environmental and economic policy to equity and public impacts on minority communities, later research considered planning, adding case studies on sustainability and resilience to the scope of research covered. This review paper stems from exchanges of a long-standing network of academic, government agency, and practice professionals working to identify research, policy, and practice gaps. It traces the evolution of US brownfield revitalization research as was informed by, and informed, policy, program and practice. This review summarizes the literature and identifies research gaps and opportunities to further community and agency actions related to investigating, remediating, and redeveloping brownfield sites. It outlines site and area options to build climate resilience, strengthen community action for dismantling structural racism and disinvestment, and reduce the disproportionate risks experienced by communities of colour and areas of low income. The authors propose a new research agenda to address the gaps identified.