A NSW Government-commissioned investigation has recommended a "major review" into how the Environment Protection Authority handles contaminated land.

It called for the public to be given more information about the risks posed by highly polluted land, and proposed a "very fast response mechanism" be investigated.

Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton says she will consider the findings of the review.

The review, sparked by a Fairfax Media investigation, found the NSW EPA's internal guidelines were too complex while providing no "clear guidance as to why decisions are taken".

It also questioned if officers were taking too long to assess highly contaminated sites and said the public had "inadequate" information about contamination levels.