There are two types of infrastructure projects – greenfield project and brownfield project. While a project developed on previously undeveloped land is a greenfield project, a brownfield project is exactly the opposite of this. Read o
n to know more about brownfield project development.
What is brownfield project?
Brownfield project is a term used in urban planning, which means land that has been used previously but is lying vacant or unused now. This land could have been contaminated by industrial waste or hazardous waste or might have suspected oil contamination. A brownfield project site was once a commercially developed parcel but currently not in use for any purpose. Such brown field project sites are found mostly in western countries, which have been used for oil refineries, railroads, gas stations or heavy manufacturing plants.
See also: What is a Greenfield Project?
Why are brownfield sites preferred?
Since land becomes degenerated if it is left unused, government authorities prefer developing and regenerating the used land- brown field project site, so that the area does not go waste. However, it is always expensive to make brownfield project sites fit for development, since companies have to spare expenses on clearing the waste on the land and getting the required permissions for its development. Moreover, builders need to hire experts and technicians to remediate the brownfield project site, to remove possible contamination completely. In some cases, it might still persist and add to environmental pollution.
Also read: National waterways: Importance and complete list of National waterways in India
Brownfield project vs greenfield project
| Brownfield project | Greenfield project |
| A project site that has been built on earlier, is called brownfield project | Sites that have not earlier been built on, are called greenfield. |
| Brownfield projects are normally associated with urban areas. | Often found in rural / countryside areas. |
| Brownfield project development is more sustainable, as it reduces the pressure on greenfield sites. | Using greenfield sites is not always sustainable, as there is too much pressure on the rural-urban fringe. |
| Providing public transport networks is easier in central areas where the population densities are high. | Greenfield sites are often on the edge of towns and cities and may have better access and less congestion. |
See also: Land measurement units in India
FAQs
What is an example of a brownfield project?
Abandoned oil refineries, chemical factories and heavy manufacturing units, are some examples of brownfield project sites.
Why is brownfield project better than greenfield project?
Brownfield project redevelopment can be cheaper, because vital infrastructure (drainage, electricity, roads, transport networks, etc.) may already exist.
What are brownfield project sites used for?
Brownfield project sites are generally redeveloped for housing and commercial buildings, open spaces for recreation and even for community areas.
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