Which of the following is an abatement option for lead-contaminated soil?

Removing and replacing the top 6 inches of soil is a valid abatement option for lead-contaminated soil. This method is effective because it physically eliminates the contaminated soil layer that has absorbed lead particles from various sources, such as deteriorating lead-based paint, leaded gasoline, or industrial activities. By removing the upper layer, you significantly reduce the concentration of lead that poses health risks, especially to children who may come into contact with the soil or inadvertently ingest lead dust through hand-to-mouth activities.

In urban areas or places with a history of lead exposure, this technique can greatly improve soil safety and reduce the likelihood of lead poisoning. The importance of such an abatement strategy lies in its thoroughness in addressing the source of contamination directly, thereby directly improving soil safety for residents.

The other options, while they have their merits in terms of landscaping or managing minor contamination, do not effectively remediate lead-contaminated soil. Planting trees and applying pesticides do not remove the lead itself and, therefore, do not solve the contamination problem. Covering with mulch might temporarily reduce exposure but does not remove the source of lead, and over time, this method can fail if the lead particles leach through or are disturbed. Thus, replacing the contaminated