DOD FOREIGN CLEANUP MEMO

[Lenny Siegel <lsiegel@igc.org>]

DOD FOREIGN CLEANUP

The Defense Department has finally issued a fairly clear memorandum on 
what it considers its cleanup obligation at current or former overseas 
bases. "Environmental Remediation Policy for DoD Activities Overseas," 
October 18, 1995. However, the memo says virtually nothing new.

The memo discusses three contingencies: active bases, closed or closing 
bases, and off-site contamination. In all situations, however, DOD 
accepts responsibility for remediation only if there is 1) imminent 
danger, 2) the in-theater commander "determines additional remediation 
is required to maintain operations or protect human health," or 3) the 
U.S. is required by a legally binding international agreement.