Environmental Assessment and Due Diligence: Safety and Transparency in Transactions
In M&A or real estate transactions, not knowing the environmental liabilities of a land or facility can represent an incalculable financial and legal risk. At ETP, we conduct rigorous Environmental Due Diligence audits, ensuring that investors, developers, and companies make informed and safe decisions, in full compliance with the requirements of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA).
How Does Our Process Work?
Our methodology is based on international best practices (such as ASTM standards) and national guidelines, divided into two fundamental research phases:
Phase 1:
Historical and Documentary Assessment
Environmental Site Assessment
The objective of this phase is to identify potential contamination indicators or risks without resorting to intrusive interventions on the ground.
Historical Research: Analysis of land use evolution through old cartography, aerial photographic records, and municipal archives.
Document Review: Review of previous environmental licenses, baseline reports, infrastructure plans (such as underground storage tanks), and incident or spill records.
Site InspectionSite Reconnaissance): Technical visit by ETP specialists to identify visual warning signs, such as stains on the ground, improper chemical storage, or degraded infrastructure.
Interviews: Collection of testimonies from current or former owners and operators of the facilities.
Phase 2:
Exploratory Geoenvironmental Investigation
Whenever Phase 1 identifies potential liabilities (so-called Recognized Environmental Conditions – REC), we advance to Phase 2 to confirm the presence and extent of contamination.
Sampling Plan Definition of critical points for intrusive investigation.
Drilling and Sampling Execution of boreholes for soil sample collection at different depths.
Laboratory Analysis: Sending samples to accredited laboratories for testing of hydrocarbons, heavy metals, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), among others.
Final Report and Recommendations: Clear presentation of results, cost estimation for mitigation (if applicable), and strategic advice for asset negotiation.
Why choose ETP for your Due Diligence?
With over 20 years of experience, our multidisciplinary team translates complex technical data into clear financial and risk information. We help protect your capital by ensuring that asset value reflects its true environmental condition.