Landfills

Landfills are engineered facilities for the disposal of municipal solid waste and other nonhazardous wastes. Their primary purpose is to isolate waste from the environment, protect public health, and provide a controlled area for long-term containment. Modern landfills are designed to manage leachate and landfill gas while minimizing odors and vectors.

Construction and operation involve a bottom liner and leachate collection system to prevent contaminated liquid from reaching soil and groundwater. Waste is layered and compacted with daily or periodic cover to limit odors and pests. Gas produced by decomposition is collected and may be flared or used to generate energy. Monitoring ensures groundwater and air quality are protected.

Environmental impacts include methane emissions, potential groundwater contamination, and odors. Proper design, operation, and post-closure care mitigate risks, but siting and community concerns remain important considerations in project approval.

Regulation and lifecycle: Landfills are subject to design standards, permits, and ongoing monitoring. The lifecycle covers site selection, construction, operation, closure, and post-closure stewardship. Some sites recover energy from landfill gas, contributing to renewable energy supplies.

While landfills are controversial, they remain a common method of waste disposal in many regions, alongside recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy. Ongoing improvements focus on reducing waste, improving gas capture, and minimizing environmental footprints.