sanering

Sanering is a term used in Dutch and Swedish to describe activities aimed at removing or reducing pollution, contamination, or hazards from environments or structures. In some contexts it also denotes a process of economic restructuring to restore solvency. The common goal is to protect health, safety, and the environment while enabling safe reuse of land or facilities.

In environmental remediation, sanering involves assessing the extent of contamination, planning the cleanup, executing removal or treatment, and verifying that the site meets regulatory safety standards. Typical targets include contaminated soil and groundwater, as well as buildings or materials containing hazardous substances such as asbestos, lead, or PCBs. Techniques range from excavation and soil replacement to in-situ stabilization, bioremediation, soil washing, venting, and controlled demolition with proper waste disposal. Work is guided by risk assessments, regulatory permits, and post-cleanup monitoring.

In building and disaster contexts, sanering covers decontamination after incidents such as fires, floods, chemical spills, or mould infestations. It emphasizes indoor air quality, surface decontamination, and safe clearance of waste before the premises can be reoccupied.

In the economic sense—primarily in the Netherlands—sanering can refer to debt restructuring or corporate rehabilitation aimed at restoring solvency and preserving business operations. This process typically involves creditors, regulators, and sometimes government support, and may require formal plans and timelines.

Regulation and practice vary by country but generally require proper licensing of contractors, adherence to environmental and workplace safety standards, and responsible waste management. The overarching aim is to reduce health risks, protect the environment, and enable safe, long-term reuse of contaminated or distressed sites.