Environmental Remediation Project of the Napoli Orientale National Site of Interest (SIN)

Project Overview The project concerns the environmental redevelopment of the former petrochemical and refinery site in Naples, covering an area of 38 hectares located within the National Site of Interest (SIN) of Napoli Orientale. Following the cessation of refining activities in 1993, the site was repurposed into a strategic logistics hub for national energy supply. In parallel, a major remediation plan was launched for the treatment of approximately 1 million tonnes of contaminated soil. Technological Protocol and Remediation Activities The remediation strategy, entrusted to a consortium of companies led by Greenthesis, is based on the integration of three core technologies, selected to maximize on-site material recovery while minimizing environmental impact: Thermal Desorption: This technology is applied to soils with high concentrations of hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The material is fed into a rotating drum and heated to temperatures of up to 500°C. The heat causes contaminants to vaporize; these vapors are subsequently captured and treated through advanced filtration systems, enabling the reuse of the decontaminated soil within the site. Land Farming: Used for moderately contaminated soils, Land Farming is a bioremediation process that leverages the metabolic activity of microorganisms (indigenous or selected) to degrade hydrocarbons. Process efficiency is ensured through continuous mechanical aeration and moisture control, supporting a circular and sustainable management of natural resources. Air Sparging & Soil Vapor Extraction (SVE): For the remediation of groundwater and saturated soils without excavation, air is injected into the subsurface. The introduced oxygen enhances natural degradation processes by aerobic bacteria. Contaminants, once volatilized, are extracted through dedicated vacuum wells (SVE) and conveyed to treatment systems for purification. Objectives and Socio-Environmental Impacts: The implementation of the remediation plan is expected to span approximately four years. The integrated approach is designed to ensure: Sustainability: Reduction in waste disposal to external landfills, thanks to the high percentage of soils treated and reused on site. Safety: Mitigation of environmental and public health risks for the surrounding area. Regeneration: Restoration of a remediated area to the city, laying the groundwork for the future urban regeneration of Naples’ eastern district.