How do landfills work?

Landfills are engineered structures that are designed to safely and effectively dispose of solid waste. They are typically located in remote areas, and they are carefully designed to minimize the impact on the environment.

Here's a general overview of how landfills work:

1. Waste Collection and Transportation: Solid waste is collected from homes, businesses, and industries, and transported to the landfill in waste collection vehicles.

2. Sorting and Processing: At the landfill, the waste is sorted and processed to remove recyclable materials, such as plastics, metals, and glass. These recyclable materials are then sent to recycling facilities.

3. Leachate and Gas Management: Landfills produce leachate, which is a liquid that contains dissolved contaminants, and landfill gas, which is a mixture of gases that are produced by the decomposition of organic waste. Leachate and gas are managed to prevent them from contaminating the environment.

4. Landfill Construction: The landfill is constructed by excavating a large pit in the ground. The bottom and sides of the pit are lined with a layer of impermeable material, such as clay or synthetic liner, to prevent leachate from escaping.

5. Waste Compaction and Placement: The waste is compacted using heavy machinery to reduce its volume and increase the stability of the landfill. The compacted waste is placed in the landfill in layers, and each layer is covered with a layer of soil to help prevent odors and minimize the risk of pests.

6. Landfill Gas Collection: Landfill gas is collected through a series of pipes that are installed in the landfill. The gas is then treated and used to generate electricity or heat.

7. Landfill Closure and Post-Closure Care: Once the landfill is full, it is closed and covered with a layer of soil. The landfill is then monitored and maintained for a period of time, typically 30 years or more, to ensure that it remains stable and there are no environmental issues.

Landfills play an important role in managing solid waste, but it is important that they are properly designed and managed to minimize their environmental impact.