CDM Smith Newsletter Feed

Currents

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0700

In this issue, our specialists discuss the path to renewables, adapting our infrastructure to the changing energy landscape, and protecting the environment as we recover resources.

Do we need yet another sustainability rating system?

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0700

In undertaking any infrastructure project it is becoming increasingly important to consider the environmental impacts and benefits over the full life cycle of the project, not just that resulting during the construction phase. The Envision™ rating system guides users in assessing the sustainability of their project in five major categories: quality of life, leadership, resource allocation, natural world, and climate and risk.

Smart Approach to Renewable Energy

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Leveraging renewable energy has many benefits. To be successful, organizations must set realistic and beneficial green goals. A holistic evaluation of an energy environment will help achieve the best energy strategy.

Currents

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0600

In this issue, our specialists discuss quantifying energy and cost savings and lowering energy use by up to 30 percent through systems management; using EPA's energy self-assessment tool can help water facilities lower costs; and taking advantage of solar energy incentives before the expire.

Currents

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0600

In our quarterly "Smart Energy. Powerful Future." web series, Currents, our specialists will provide insight on the latest news in sustainable energy around the world. In each issue we will highlight trending topics and provide useful analysis on energy efficiency, the water + energy nexus, the latest developments in technology, green building and energy conservation.

Taking a Closer Look at Water Conservation

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 09:37:00 -0600

As the demand for water grows, business and industry continue to identify ways to enhance the value of clean, reliable water. In this issue, we explore the drivers of water use (or reuse) and outline the best approaches for water conservation.

Newsletter February 2012

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:10:01 -0600

Graf Moltke Mines 3 and 4, Gladbeck Brauck, Germany
The Graf Moltke coal mine closed in the year 1971. The refuse heap with a floor space of approximately 16 ha and a total height of 40 to 50 m above the ground level also belongs to the mine. At the end of the 1970s the residual coal in the mining debris ignited and since then the heap has been considered a burning heap. The southeastern slope shows severe stability deficits in addition to several burned patches. The plan to secure the slope comprises the buildup of multi-level retaining structures (sheet-pile wall, steep face covered in greenery, gabionnade) in combination with mineral surface sealing required for fire protection. CDM Smith will supervise the construction in terms of geology and fire protection as well as to provide the corresponding technical monitoring of the overall project.

Thorium Remediation, Oberhausen, Germany
During repair efforts in a chemical factory in the year 2009, contamination with radionuclides of the radioactive decay chain th-232 were detected in the area of the tank. After further investigations, thorium contamination was found in the building stock of the entire building complex (“old“ channeled sheets, steel girders, sidewalk slabs and walls), plant parts and installations. The reason for this contamination was probably the use of thorium dioxide as catalyst in the Fischer-Tropsch process to produce fuels in World War II. To guarantee appropriate and proper remediation, the joint venture of CDM Smith and aek atomic engineers GmbH was commissioned to assume the expert oversight of a remediation plan, ensuring uninterrupted production.

West Island Line, Hong Kong
The West Island and the South Island Line are being built as extensions to the Island Line metro network in Hong Kong. The construction is divided into lots which are planned and built by different consortia. CDM Smith is currently conducting freezing tests in the laboratory for the lots 704 and 826 to determine planning parameters for the required heat and static calculations. The freezing efforts serve to secure crosscut connections between the two tunnels and to secure advance measures in the planned shield track. For instance, old steel piles have to be recovered. CDM Smith‘s clients are a Chinese JV headed by China Railway Construction Corporation Ltd. and a Japanese-Chinese JV consisting of the companies Gammon and Nishimatsu.

Water and Wastewater Sector Support (LWWSS) Program, Lebanon
CDM Smith, as a subconsultant to Development Alternatives, Inc. (DAI), recently signed a contract modification for the LWWSS Program, a Task Order under the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Water II IQC. This program is providing assistance to four water establishments in Lebanon and to the Ministry of Energy and Water (MOEW). CDM Smith’s scope of work has been to provide general engineering support services engineering services during construction, review and approval of technical submittals, review/ inspection during construction, and final acceptance of equipment and construction works. The modification includes a continuation of general engineering support services for an additional two years, through December 2013, and an “add-on” for the South Lebanon Water Establishment (SLWE) pump station/ well rehabilitation (10/2011 –10/2014) where CDM Smith is providing design of rehabilitation works, construction supervision, and change order evaluation and recommendation. This project further cements CDM Smith’s presence in Lebanon which began with the successful Small Village Wastewater Treatment Systems Project and the follow on contract, Phase II to construct the facilities recommended and designed under the first phase.

Environmental Site Evaluation, South Africa
In December 2010, CDM Smith conducted environmental due diligence (phase I) at an industrial company in Brits, South Africa. The motivation for this was the integration of existing production sites in the corporate environmental safety & health system in the future. On the basis of the two-day site evaluation covering both the compliance with environmental regulations and the threat to soil and groundwater due to previous use, CDM Smith developed a preliminary evaluation concept (phase IIa). In February 2012, the drilling company we had commissioned investigated the geological and hydrogeological conditions at the site and preselected local drilling companies. The future measures comprise a 100- hour pumping test at the site measuring points and the preparation of the call for tenders for phase IIb.

Water Treatment Plant in Konstancin-Jeziorna, Poland
Konstancin-Jeziorna is a town of 23,000 inhabitants 20 km south of Warsaw. The local water treatment plant was built in the 1960s for the Finnish paper manufacturer Metsä Tissue. It also treats nearly all the wastewater for the community. The new operator, Saur Horyzont S.A., is a subsidiary of the globally operating French company SAUR. CDM Smith in Warsaw was commissioned to plan a new treatment plant with a capacity of 6,000 m3/d near the existing plant. Due to the low load-bearing capacity of the subsoil most parts of the plant need to be constructed on piles. A total of 1,000 piles with a depth of over 10 m will be introduced. CDM Smith has also been commissioned to plan the access roads.

ISO 50001: The New Energy Management System Standard

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:29:00 -0700

In 2011, ISO released ISO 50001 – Energy Management Systems (EnMS). This voluntary standard serves as a model to elevate energy management and conservation efforts by embedding awareness, best practices and increased value firmwide.

Choosing the Right EPC Partner

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:18:06 -0600

As the need for project customization grows, the engineering procurement construction (EPC) delivery method continues to provide innovative design and construction solutions that shape the future of projects.

The New International Green Construction Code

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:20 -0600

The International Code Council recently launched the International Green Construction Code initiative, subtitled "Safe and Sustainable: By the Book." The IGCC aims to significantly reduce energy usage and greenhouse gases through mandatory green building design and performance in new and existing commercial buildings.

Sustainable Remediation

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:20 -0600

Sustainable remediation is a holistic approach to achieving site objectives, preserving natural resources, economic viability, and enhanced quality of life.

Design-Build for Expediting Project Schedules

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:21 -0600

New permit requirements, court orders, and other critical schedule drivers often require companies to complete complex projects in a short amount of time. When schedules are tight and the pressure is on, choosing a design-build approach for project completion can make all the difference.

Steps Toward a Lighter Water Footprint

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:21 -0600

Sustainability is a hot topic for companies and water usage/discharge is an important component to overall sustainable operations. For many facility and operations managers, an emerging term to keep in mind is water footprint.

Microconstituents—Staying Ahead of the Game

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:21 -0600

There are 2.5 million chemical compounds in existence; new and refined analytical testing procedures—capable of measuring in nanograms and parts per quadrillion—are enabling the detection of these "microconstituents." Understanding the presence and implications of them is important for managing health risks and liability, and for protecting brand reputation.

Environmental Management Systems

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:21 -0600

Competing successfully in the increasingly complex marketplace requires an understanding of the interdependent dimensions of the environmental, social, and economic landscape, and being equipped to deal with the increasing rate at which change occurs. For many organizations, developing an EMS is often the catalyst for new ways of thinking about sustainability performance.

Global Approaches to Soil Protection and Revitalization

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:36:21 -0600

Two European and U.S. initiatives are aimed at creating new policies and guidance for soil cleanup, protection, and land revitalization. While the European Union is focused on a comprehensive soil protection strategy for all member countries, the United States is providing an guidance on promoting land revitalization.

The Power of Recycling

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:54:45 -0600

CDM Smith provided fast-track design-build implementation of Johnson Controls integrated stormwater and industrial wastewater treatment system, which employs modern environmental controls to protect the public and the environment.

Advancing Large-Scale Drinking Water Treatment

Tue, 07 May 2013 13:21:27 -0600

New York's Catskill-Delaware ultraviolet disinfection facility for drinking water is the largest of its kind in the world, providing water for 9 million residents in New York City and beyond.

Robin Black: Putting Clients in Touch with Congress

Tue, 07 May 2013 09:16:08 -0600

An interview with CDM Smith's Director of Government Relations Robin Black.

Restoring the Environment and Trust

Fri, 03 May 2013 13:59:15 -0600

CDM Smith has assisted the Department of Energy with environmental restoration services at the Santa Susana Field Laboratory, and in the process has rebuilt regulator and community trust in the project.

Energy in Transit

Tue, 07 May 2013 13:20:09 -0600

A new, energy-efficient bus facility for Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority will help transition to cleaner fuels, reduce the carbon footprint and improve transportation for residents.

Managing Solid Waste in Colombia

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:30:53 -0600

Implementing best practices and increasing accountability at the Doña Juana landfill in Colombia.

Global Citizenship

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:36:15 -0600

CDM Smith reaches out around the world through volunteerism and philanthropy.

New + Noteworthy

Mon, 06 May 2013 12:56:57 -0600

New and noteworthy at CDM Smith.

Building Green, Saving Green

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:02:51 -0700

Upgrades to Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant will incorporate Cambi’s thermal hydrolysis process (THP)—the first facility in the United States to use this technology, and the largest Cambi plant in the world.

Interview with Stephen J. Hickox, PE, BCEE

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:40 -0700

CDM Smith's new CEO Steve Hickox shares his thoughts on state of the industry and vision for the firm.

New Life for an Old Mine

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:39 -0700

CDM Smith is implementing a design-build program to reactivate the idle Moss Gold Mine, allowing Golden Vertex to dig deeper and transform the historic site into a productive model of mining.

Mission Ready

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:41 -0700

Designed and built by CDM Smith, the U.S. Coast Guard's $11.4 million station at Training Center Cape May better serves the agency's mission and operational needs in the Delaware Bay and mid-Atlantic region.

Looking to the Future

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:41 -0700

CDM Smith helps clients lead the conceptualization, development and operation of world-class tolling solutions around the world.

Global Citizenship

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:38 -0700

CDM Smith reaches out around the world through volunteerism and philanthropy.

New + Noteworthy

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:45:41 -0700

New and noteworthy at CDM Smith.

Creating Sustainable Communities Through Smart Decisions

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 14:05:10 -0600

Connecting experts around the world through its base in Singapore, CDM Smith’s Neysadurai Centre for Integrated Urban Solutions is helping clients get the most out of limited funding while addressing competing demands, properly valuing natural resources, protecting ecosystems and improving infrastructure.

The Bridge to Community Involvement

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 07:17:38 -0600

The Northern Transnational Highway connectivity project is part of a $461 million compact to improve public programs and build new infrastructure that supports its growing and diverse population. This new series of roads and bridges is physically uniting northern El Salvador with the rest of the country to enable new social and economic opportunities.

Smart Energy Savings for Cities

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:29:53 -0600

CDM Smith specialists in engineering, community planning and energy management share insights on energy strategies for cities and communities to help reduce energy use and lower costs.

Cleaner, Safer Waterways

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:59:37 -0600

Remediating contaminated sediments in Portland, Oregon, and Raritan, New Jersey, is a highly sophisticated process that protects public health, the environment and the food chain.

Helping Water Agencies Navigate Change

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 11:36:13 -0600

CDM Smith partnered with the California Department of Water Resources and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to create the Climate Change Handbook for Regional Water Planning. The handbook is one of the first efforts in the United States to incorporate climate change into watershed management planning.

Big Ideas for Small Technology

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:16:55 -0600

High-technology research and development spaces help Owens Corning and Ohio State University protect employee health and the environment, and bring new carbon-enhanced materials to market.

global citizenship

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 07:38:21 -0600

Just a few examples of how CDM Smith employees are making a difference around the world.

new + noteworthy

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 08:17:05 -0600

Advancing the industry and making a difference—learn what CDM Smith employees have been up to.

Sustainable Snacking

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:22 -0600

Relying on a compact, innovative water recycling facility and solar power, Frito-Lay's Casa Grande snack food plant uses advanced membrane technology to reuse process water for production needs and runs almost entirely on renewable energy—producing nearly zero waste.

Light Rail Solutions for Heavy Congestion

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:22 -0600

CDM Smith partnered with the Utah Transit Authority to design and implement new, award-winning light rail lines as part of the ambitious FrontLines 2015 program—helping support UTA’s mission of providing a world class transit system to meet a growing population and economy.

Industries Managing Energy for Global Innovation

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:23 -0600

International energy standard ISO 50001 will help private and public organizations around the world transition to long-term energy planning and management. Thirty-two countries participated in developing the standard, which is expected to promote innovation, energy security and cost savings.

Hold the Salt

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:23 -0600

With the ocean being California, USA’s only unlimited water supply, seawater desalination plants are increasingly being evaluated and developed throughout the state as an alternative to traditional water supply sources. CDM Smith has been at the forefront of making seawater desalination a viable and sustainable option in California.

Building Infrastructure that Builds a Community

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:23 -0600

The Wyaralong Dam project and recreational area in South East Queensland, Australia, is an example of sustainable infrastructure incorporating long-term environmental management and planning. The project employed local businesses and workers, provided outdoor space for the community, and stimulated tourism—all while offsetting carbon emissions and protecting local wildlife.

Rapid Responses for Reliable Transit

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:24 -0600

Bus rapid transit (BRT) is an adaptable solution being used in urban areas to help improve service and respect existing transit corridors. CDM Smith is partnering with transit agencies across the United States to plan, design and implement BRT solutions in cities like Cleveland, Ohio, and Chicago, Illinois.

global citizenship

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:24 -0600

Just a few examples of how CDM Smith employees have made a difference around the world.

new + noteworthy

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:45:26 -0600

Advancing the industry and making a difference—learn what CDM Smith employees have been up to.