Landfill Management Research Articles

The potential role of safety, health, environmental quality (SHEQ) management systems in sustainable landfill management in Zimbabwe-a review

The potential role of safety, health, environmental quality (SHEQ) management systems in sustainable landfill management in Zimbabwe-a review

Permeation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-laden leachate in landfills as an outcome of puncture failures of high-density polyethylene geomembranes

In response to growing environmental concerns regarding the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in landfills, this study explores PFAS permeation through pinhole defects of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes (GMs) experimentally. Specifically, this study aims to: (i) investigate the adsorption of PFAS onto HDPE GMs, (ii) evaluate the effectiveness of GMs experimentally in retaining PFAS-laden leachate in the event of a puncture failure, (iii) assess the critical conditions leading to puncture failure of GM using mechanical characterization testing with complementary finite element method (FEM) analyses with the input data from mechanical characterization. Our findings show limited intermolecular attractive interactions between PFAS and GMs, and surfactant properties of PFAS contribute to higher leachate permeation through pinholes. In general, highly fluorinated, short chain PFAS exhibit increased permeation rates, which was attributed to their size and greater propensity to align at the water-air interface. This study underlines the environmental implications of PFAS-laden leachates especially when there are no proper liner systems or leachate collection systems in place underscoring the necessity for modern landfill design and management practices to mitigate environmental risks associated with PFAS.

Conceptual and Applied Aspects of Water Retention Tests on Tailings Using Columns

The water retention capacity of porous materials is crucial in various geotechnical and environmental engineering applications such as slope stability analysis, landfill management, and mining operations. Filtered tailings stacks are considered an alternative to traditional tailings dams. Nevertheless, the mechanical behaviour and stability of the material under different water content conditions are of concern because these stacks can reach considerable heights. The water behaviour in these structures is poorly understood, particularly the effects of the water content on the stability and potential for liquefaction of the stacks. This study aims to investigate the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted iron ore tailings in high columns to better understand their hydromechanical behaviour. The research used 5 m high columns filled with iron ore tailings from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The columns were prepared in layers, compacted, and instrumented with moisture content sensors and suction sensors to monitor the water movement during various stages of saturation, drainage, infiltration, and evaporation. The sensors provided consistent data and revealed that the tailings exhibited high drainage capacity. The moisture content and suction profiles were effectively established over time and revealed the dynamic water retention behaviour. The comparison of the data with the theoretical soil water retention curve (SWRC) demonstrated a good correlation which indicates that there was no hysteresis in the material response. The study concludes that the column setup effectively captures the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted tailings and provides valuable insights for the hydromechanical analysis of filtered tailings stacks. These findings can significantly help improve numerical models, calibrate material parameters, and contribute to the safer and more efficient management of tailings storage facilities.

Effect of landfill leachates on urban soil: A review

The increasing generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is a significant global concern, with landfills receiving around 1.4 billion tonnes of MSW yearly. Inadequate landfill management contributes to environmental degradation, with landfill leachate being a substantial outcome of MSW decomposition. Leachate contains inorganic nutrients, volatile and dissolved organic molecules and heavy metals and its properties vary depending on waste composition, moisture content and seasonal elements. Heavy metals found in leachate include Pb, Cu, Cr, Ni, Mn, Hg, Fe, Zn and Cd and Emerging Organic Contaminants (EOCs) such as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC), pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PCPs) are also prevalent. Microplastics (MPs) have been found in raw leachate samples at concentrations ranging from 49.0 ± 24.3 to 507.6 ± 37.3 items/L. Landfill leachate production ranks among the most aggressive pollutants to the environment, particularly to soil and poses a danger of contaminating both surface and groundwater. This review examines the potential impacts of landfill leachate on soil quality and the broader implications of this phenomenon, summarizing recent scientific studies and presenting the direct and indirect effects of leachate on soil based on the literature. Bibliometric analysis of publications in the Scopus database reveals a growing scholarly interest in this topic, with the number of publications in the Science Citation Index (SCI) database increasing dramatically to over 464 articles between 2009 and 2024.

Landfill mining: A step forward to reducing CH4 emissions and enhancing CO2 sequestration from landfill

Landfill management is a major challenge for sustainable development in terms of climate change and resource scarcity. Landfill leachate contains high concentrations of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which cause eutrophication if discharged improperly. However, the nutrients can be recovered and reused as fertilizers for agriculture, contributing to resource recovery, circular economy, food security, and net zero emissions. Recent advances in landfill management have transformed landfills into resource recovery facilities that can produce nutrient-energy-material (NEM) products for applications through biological or physico-chemical process. Through a literature survey, this article reviews NEM recovery from landfills such as biogas production and composting. This work also discusses the benefits and challenges of NEM recovery for sustainability transition towards net zero emissions, while analyzes knowledge gaps and future research directions for landfill management and NEM recovery. It was conclusive from 193 articles published between 1993 and 2024 that landfill mining presents a promising solution for mitigating CH4 emissions and enhancing CO2 sequestration, both critical in reducing the overall greenhouse gas footprint of waste management. From landfill leachate and/or landfill gas, engineers can recover and recycle nutrients (for fertilizer), materials (for chemistry), and biogas (for electricity). Through landfill management, roadmaps towards decarbonization can be cost-effective and sustainable so that a maximum value of the waste can be extracted before it is discarded. Key findings reveal that CH4 emissions can be reduced by uncovering buried waste, while soil and residual organic material enhance CO2 sequestration through microbial activity. Additionally, this review highlights the economic and environmental benefits of material recovery from landfills, including metals and plastics. Overall, this work emphasizes landfill mining as a sustainable strategy for improving waste management practices, while contributing to climate change mitigation.

A Comprehensive Review of Engineering Strategies for Environmental Sustainability in Sustainable Waste Management

Waste management and environmental sustainability are intricately linked aspects crucial for maintaining ecological balance and human well-being. This study synthesizes research findings and scholarly insights to underscore the significance of effective waste management practices in achieving environmental sustainability goals. It examines waste treatment approaches, including recycling, waste-to-energy systems, and waste reduction strategies, highlighting their role in mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the study explores the environmental consequences of inadequate waste management, emphasizing the urgent need for holistic solutions to address water, soil, and air pollution. Engineering solutions for sustainable waste management, such as the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), thermal treatment methods, and landfill management, are discussed as essential components of a comprehensive strategy. By integrating these approaches, policymakers, industries, and communities can minimize waste generation, conserve resources, and safeguard the environment for current and future generations. Challenges like regulatory barriers, lack of awareness, and inadequate infrastructure pose obstacles to sustainable waste management practices. Thus, a collaborative effort involving governments, businesses, and civil society is crucial to implementing effective waste management policies and initiatives. Through concerted action, we can transition to a circular economy model that promotes resource efficiency, environmental protection, and human well-being on a global scale.

Mapping PM2.5 Sources and Emission Management Options for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Harsh winters, aging infrastructure, and the demand for modern amenities are major factors contributing to the deteriorating air quality in Bishkek. The city meets its winter heating energy needs through coal combustion at the central heating plant, heat-only boilers, and in situ heating equipment, while diesel and petrol fuel its transportation. Additional pollution sources include 30 km2 of industrial area, 16 large open combustion brick kilns, a vehicle fleet with an average age of more than 10 years, 7.5 km2 of quarries, and a landfill. The annual PM2.5 emission load for the airshed is approximately 5500 tons, resulting in an annual average concentration of 48 μg/m3. Wintertime daily averages range from 200 to 300 μg/m3. The meteorological and pollution modeling was conducted using a WRF–CAMx system to evaluate PM2.5 source contributions and to support scenario analysis. Proposed emissions management policies include shifting to clean fuels like gas and electricity for heating, restricting secondhand vehicle imports while promoting newer standard vehicles, enhancing public transport with newer buses, doubling waste collection efficiency, improving landfill management, encouraging greening, and maintaining road infrastructure to control dust emissions. Implementing these measures is expected to reduce PM2.5 levels by 50–70% in the mid- to long-term. A comprehensive plan for Bishkek should expand the ambient monitoring network with reference-grade and low-cost sensors to track air quality management progress and enhance public awareness.

Exploring the microbe-mediated biological processes of BTEX and toxic metal(loid)s in aging petrochemical landfills

Aging petrochemical landfills serve as reservoirs of inorganic and organic contaminants, posing potential risks of contamination to the surrounding environment. Identifying the pollution characteristics and elucidating the translocation/ transformation processes of typical contaminants in aging petrochemical landfills are crucial yet challenging endeavors. In this study, we employed a combination of chemical analysis and microbial metagenomic technologies to investigate the pollution characteristics of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) as well as metal(loid)s in a representative aging landfill, surrounding soils, and underlying groundwater. Furthermore, we aimed to explore their transformations driven by microbial activity. Our findings revealed widespread distribution of metal(loid)s, including Cd, Ni, Cu, As, Mn, Pb, and Zn, in these environmental media, surpassing soil background values and posing potential ecological risks. Additionally, microbial processes were observed to contribute significantly to the degradation of BTEX compounds and the transformation of metal(loid)s in landfills and surrounding soils, with identified microbial communities and functions playing key roles. Notably, co-occurrence network analysis unveiled the coexistence of functional genes associated with BTEX degradation and metal(loid) transformation, driven primarily by As, Ni, and Cd. These results shed light on the co-selection of resistance traits against BTEX and metal(loid) contaminants in soil microbial consortia under co-contamination scenarios, supporting microbial adaptive evolution in aging petrochemical landfills. The insights gained from this study enhance our understanding of characteristic pollutants and microbial transformation processes in aging landfills, thereby facilitating improved landfill management and contamination remediation strategies.

Seabirds as biovectors in the transport of plastic debris across ecosystem borders: A case study from the Humboldt Current Upwelling System

Seabirds have become biovectors of plastic pollutants between marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and transport of plastics to their nesting sites becomes relevant due to increasing levels of pollution. To determine the pathways by which plastic reaches their colonies, we analysed the abundance of plastics at the nesting sites of five seabird species (Humboldt penguin Spheniscus humboldti, Peruvian booby Sula variegata, kelp gull Larus dominicanus, grey gull Leucophaeus modestus, Markham's storm-petrel Hydrobates markhami) nesting in northern Chile. Seabirds were primarily grouped according to their nesting behaviour, but two species foraging in contrasting habitats (kelp gull and Markham's storm-petrel) were also compared directly. The abundance, type, and polymer of macro-, meso- and microplastics were analysed in the soil of colonies and control sites, and microplastic ingestion was evaluated for selected species. Densities of plastics in colonies of surface-nesting seabirds ranged from 0 to 21.4 items m−2 (mainly plastic bags and thin films), and 0.002 to 19.7 items m−2 (mainly hard fragments) in colonies of burrow-nesting seabirds. Mean microplastic loads in the stomachs of seabirds were between 3.7 ± 4.2 plastic items individual−1. Overall, the abundances of plastic items in all seabird colonies were low, suggesting a limited transfer of plastics from sea to land. For kelp gulls, the results indicate transfer of macroplastic items to colonies, reaching the colony via regurgitates, with landfills considered as the main plastic source. Our results suggest that contrasting nesting behaviour and foraging habitats among species can explain differential plastic accumulation in seabird colonies, but also other factors, such as wind, contribute to the accumulation of plastic debris in colonies. Proper management of sanitary landfills are key to reduce plastic contamination of coastal seabirds and their colonies.

Assessing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Methane Production During Post-Landfill Maintenance in Kish Island: A LandGEM Simulation Approach

Background: Municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills are significant contributors to the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly methane, during the breakdown of waste materials. Researchers have undertaken extensive investigations into quantifying methane emissions from landfills, utilizing various methodologies beyond reliance on the LandGEM model. Numerous studies have underscored the efficacy of this model in predicting methane generation and exploring its utility in activities such as energy generation and emission mitigation strategies. Objectives: Municipal solid waste landfills are vital contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, notably methane, during waste decomposition. Significant research has focused on estimating methane output from landfills, utilizing various approaches beyond the LandGEM model. Studies highlight the model's potential in assessing methane generation and its relevance to activities like energy generation and emission management. Methods: The LandGEM simulation model is employed to forecast future waste generation and provide valuable insights into the environmental consequences of landfill management on the island. By analyzing population data and waste generation statistics from 2023 to 2042, the study utilizes the LandGEM software to estimate methane emissions, incorporating site-specific data and waste composition analysis. Results: The findings reveal that 36% of the total waste on Kish Island consists of putrescible material, with food waste being a significant component. Over the study period, approximately 1,282,637 tons of waste are projected to be disposed of in the Kish landfill. The LandGEM model predicts the highest landfill gas emission in 2043, primarily methane, along with carbon dioxide and non-metallic organic compounds. The estimated quantities for these gases in 2043 are 5.415E+03, 1.486E+04, and 2.327E+02 metric tons, respectively. Conclusions: This research highlights the importance of tailored waste management strategies to mitigate environmental impacts and emphasizes the need for efficient gas collection systems. A proposed gas collection system combining vertical wells, horizontal trenches, and under-membrane pipes is discussed to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental risks. The study provides valuable insights into waste management and landfill gas emissions on Kish Island, underscoring the significance of accurate emission prediction and effective management to minimize environmental consequences and optimize the utilization of renewable energy resources.

A comparative analysis of landfill practice between Poland and Indonesia

This research addresses the global challenge of waste management (WM) by comparing landfill management practices in Poland (Radiowo landfill) and Indonesia (Kebon Kongok landfill) to define the differences in landfill WM systems and analyse the main challenges in implementing effective landfill management WM systems in Poland and Indonesia. The data was analysed by employing the rapid impact assessment matrix (RIAM). The analysis focused on three critical areas: gas management, leachate management and landfill reclamation. The results showed that the Polish landfill demonstrated high efficacy, particularly in leachate management with water quality impact (96), gas emissions control with methane extraction (96), and site reclamation for site restoration (96). For these purposes, the landfill uses advanced leachate treatment technologies and drainage systems. Conversely, Indonesian landfill practices show severe inefficiencies, with negative scores in almost all sectors. The lowest score was in leachate management with water quality impact (–48), gas emissions with air quality impact (–48), and site reclamation in community space development (–48). The study contributes to the sustainable waste management discourse, providing actionable insights for policymakers and environmental managers.

Exploring relationships among landfill leachate parameters through multivariate analysis for monitoring purposes.

Elucidating the properties of landfill leachate and the relationships among leachate parameters is crucial for efforts to determine appropriate landfill leachate monitoring activity and management strategies. This study investigated the physical, chemical and optical parameters of leachate in an old Japanese landfill over a 13-month period. The parameters were explored based on their relationships with the maximum fluorescence (Fmax) of three components (microbial humic-like C1, terrestrial humic-like C2 and protein-like C3) deconvoluted from excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with parallel factor analysis. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC), chemical oxygen demand (COD), Cl- and SO42- concentrations and pH ranged from 2.6 to 38.2 mg C L-1, 9 to 324 mg L-1, 14 to 972 mg L-1, 26 to 1554 mg L-1 and 6.9 to 11.6, respectively. Linear regression analysis suggested that the Fmax values of C2 and C3 represented DOC, whereas the Fmax value of C2 alone could serve as a COD indicator. Hierarchical cluster analysis and principal component analysis were employed to successfully categorise leachate samples based on their locations. Higher dissolved organic matter levels were observed in leachate within the old disposal area, whereas elevated levels of inorganic components such as SO42- and Cl- were found in leachate collected from the extended disposal area and at a treatment facility. Statistical analysis provides crucial tools for assessing and managing various areas of a landfill, supporting targeted and effective waste management strategies.

The Result of Electrical Resistivity Investigation of Solid Waste Landfill Conducted at Nsukka Municipality Using Electrical Resistivity Measurments

Solid waste landfill management has been a significant issue for Nigerian urban areas and other developing countries across the globe.Similar to most other cities, Nsukka also generates waste on a daily basis, much of which is dumped in poorly designed and positioned dumping sites. The majority of the disposal sites are found on roadsides, at marketplaces, on farms, and in residential neighborhoods, among other places. The road infrastructure and groundwater are under danger, and the beauty of the impacted communities are not spared. Undoubtedly, the unchecked citation of boreholes as the source of potable water in the majority of our rural and urban communities—given that the government doesn't seem to be providing water to the people—has become a significant challenge. An investigation using electrical resistivity method was conducted around a solid waste dumpsite at Nsukka in Nsukka L.G.A of Enugu State, Nigeria with an aim to investigate the level of groundwater contamination and the objectives to determine the subsurface geoelectric layers, depth to water table, lithology delineation and map out the contamination zones. The scope of this study provides an overview of some of the approaches used to assess the aquifer vulnerability and aquifer potential using Vertical Electrical Sounding (Schlumberger array) and 2D resistivity imaging (Wenner array) in different locations around Nsukka municipality dumpsite. Both methods were used for this study in order to provide a geophysical database for exploration of the study area’s groundwater resources and also they are less expensive and less time consuming. VES has proved to be effective in solving groundwater problems in most places in Nigeria (Ezeh and Ugwu, 2010; Ugwu and Ezeh, 2012; Nzemeka et al. [1,2]. Electrical Sounding (VES) and 2D resistivity imaging were carried out with a digital read out resistivity meter (ABEM SAS 1000) to acquire data in the area and were interpreted using the Schlumberger automatic INTERPEX analysis software and the RES2DINV software respectively, which generates model curves using initial layer parameters and display the variations of electrical resistivities respectively. A total of eight (8) sounding and six (6) 2D resistivity imagings were carried out in the area. A contaminant leachate plume was delineated in 2D resistivity sections as low resistivity zones while the VES shows the depth of aquifer. In 2D pseudosections where bluish colours with low resistivities (less than 20.80\(\Omega\)m) with the depth ranging from 1.28m to 17.1m in the Line 1 and 2 are seen as contaminated zones. The rest of the lines are not contaminated because of their high resistivities (greater than 20.80\(\Omega\)m). The result of the electrical resistivity survey also showed 4 - 5 layers geo-electric sections and an AA and AK type sounding curves. The VES result shows that VES 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B which are carried out on line 1 & 2 of the wenner lines showed signs of contamination with low resistivity values less than 20.80\(\Omega\)m complementing the wenner results. The contamination has not yet got to where the aquifer is located on the lines. Since the depth to the aquifer ranges from 30.26m to 155.43m while maximum depth of contamination is 17.1m. It is believed that the leachate has not percolated down to the aquiferous zones as such aquifers are presumed to be free. As such, it is recommended that boreholes around the study area should not be less than 30m deep to avoid exploiting polluted water.

A regenerated cellulose fiber with high mechanical properties for temperature-adaptive thermal management

The escalating global population has led to a surge in waste textiles, posing a significant challenge in landfill management worldwide. In this work, ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazole acetate ([Bmim]OAc) and DMF (N, n-dimethylformamide) were used as solvents to dissolve waste denim fabric, then vanadium dioxide (VO2) nanoparticles were introduced into the spinning solution, and cellulose fibers were regenerated by dry-wet spinning process, to promote the recycling of waste cotton fabric. Finally, regenerated cellulose fibers with high added value were prepared by dry-wet spinning. Through this innovative strategy, on the one hand, because VO2 can form a large number of hydrogen bonds between the regenerated cellulose molecules, and realize the cross-networking structure of the molecular chains inside the fiber, the mechanical properties of the regenerated cellulose fibers are enhanced. On the other hand, due to the thermal phase transformation characteristics of VO2, it also endows the regenerated cellulose fiber unique intelligent temperature control function. Compared with the pristine regenerated fiber, the tensile stress of the regenerated fiber after adding VO2 nanoparticles (F-VO2) increased by 25.6 %, reaching 158.68 MPa. In addition, the F-VO2 fibric provides excellent intelligent temperature control, reducing temperatures by up to 6.7 °C.

Developing an eco-friendly cementitious grout using paper sludge ash and steel fiber recovered from waste tires

Cement is the most important component in cementitious grout production,andtt accounts for 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the amount of cement used in infrastructure and buildings is a desirable way to lower the total carbon footprint associated with grout production. relatedly, developments in manufacturing and transportation lead to the production of cars in large numbers, which in turn leads to an increase in the production of byproduct waste like waste tires, which are thrown away directly without recycling. Thus, this study aims to develop a novel sustainable grout by recycling paper sludge ash waste (PSA) and waste steel fiber (WSF) as partial cement replacements. This will help reduce grout production costs, minimize environmental pollution during cement production, and enhance landfill and waste management. The Grout mixtures used in this paper were prepared using ordinary Portland cement (OPC), WSF extracted from vehicle tires, PSA, and water. Different proportions of WSF(0, 1, 2, 3%) and PSA(5, 10%) were used in the weight of cement in designing sustainable grout. The mechanical properties of the sustainable grout were evaluated by examining extensive tests including flow tables, compressive strength, and flexural strength. The results showed that partially replacing the cement with 3% WSF and 1% WSP with 5% PSA resulted in a significant improvement in workability ,as well as a clear increase in compressive and flexural strength at an early age compared to the reference mixture.

Effect of glass waste powder and date palm seed ash based sustainable cementitious grouts on the performance of semi-flexible pavement

Cement plays a pivotal role in the production of semi-flexible pavement (SFP), however, it contributes to 8 % of global carbon dioxide emissions. Consequently, reducing cement usage in grout production for porous asphalt mixtures is highly desirable to mitigate the overall carbon footprint. Additionally, the substantial generation of agricultural, industrial, and hazardous waste often ends up in environmental disposal without recycling. This research aims to repurpose glass waste powder (GWP) and date palm seed ash (DPSA) as partial substitutes for cement in SFP, aiming to curtail environmental pollution from cement production, decrease costs, and enhance waste and landfill management. Novel cement grouts were formulated by partially replacing Portland cement with GWP and DPSA at varying ratios (10 %, 20 %, and 30 %). These grout blends were assessed for flow characteristics and compressive strength. Furthermore, SFP samples were prepared by integrating 5 % styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)-modified bitumen into a porous asphalt structure, subsequently filled with predefined cement grouts. Comparative analysis of compressive strength, Marshall stability, skid resistance, and moisture damage resistance indicated that SFP specimens modified with GWP and DPSA exhibited superior performance over conventional counterparts. Optimal results were achieved with a combination of 20 % GWP and 10 % DPSA replacement ratio, yielding denser microstructure, enhanced skid resistance, and improved adhesion and tensile strength, thereby enhancing overall SFP performance.

Anaerobic digestion or composting? Small-scale plants design and holistic evaluations in a Sub-Saharan African context

In small developing settings, is it worth building anaerobic digestion (AD) or composting plants? This study explores the economic, management, and environmental dimensions of two small-scale alternatives for organic fraction municipal solid waste (OFMSW) treatment within the context of Lacor Hospital (Uganda): aerated static pile composting (S1) and AD with digestate composting (S2), both designed to manage approximately 347.5 tOFMSW annually. In the optimistic scenario, S1 achieves a cost savings of about −2.9 USD tOFMSW−1, while S2 incurs costs of 2.1 USD tOFMSW−1. In the pessimistic scenario, S1's costs rise to 3.9 USD tOFMSW−1, while S2 becomes more expensive at 9.5 USD tOFMSW−1. Management analysis underlines S2's complexity due to AD operations and digestate drying. Total normalized environmental impacts of S1 can be quantified with about 0.125 mPt tOFMSW−1, whereas S2 is equal to about −6.163 mPt tOFMSW−1. However, in an optimistic scenario, climate change endpoint category results are similar. On balance, the LCA analysis indicates that AD can be better than standalone composting. However, in developing settings serving approximately 3000 inhabitants, it is crucial to prioritize economic and management sustainability that can be obtained only by small-scale composting plants. These findings provide definite insights for small-scale waste management projects in low-income regions, offering valuable data and references for plant design and their replicability. The study sets the ultimate definition of the most feasible option to treat OFMSW in low-income settings: community composting. Unfortunately, economic barriers remain the main challenge: citizens should pay for the service and landfill management fees should be set by local governments.

Estimating Landfill Landslide Probability Using SAR Satellite Products: A Novel Approach

This article presents a methodology for evaluating the susceptibility of landfill areas to develop landslides by analyzing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite products. The deformation velocity of the landfills is computed through the Persistent Scatterer Method on SAR imagery. These data, combined with a deformation model based on the shallow water equations (SWE), form the foundation for a Monte Carlo experiment that extrapolates the current state of the landfill into the future. The results of this simulation are then employed to determine the probability of a landslide occurrence. In order to validate the methodology effectiveness, a case study is conducted on a landfill in Zaldibar, Spain, revealing its effectiveness in estimating the probability of landfill landslides. This innovative approach emerges as an asset in large landfill management, acting as a proactive tool for identifying high-risk sites and preventing potential landslides, ultimately safeguarding human life and the environment. By providing insights into landslide probabilities, this study enhances decision-making processes and facilitates the development of intervention strategies in the domain of landfill risk assessment and management.

Identification of prevalent leachate percolation of municipal solid waste landfill: a case study in India

Landfill leachate forms when waste-inherent water and percolated rainfall transfer are highly toxic, corrosive, acidic, and full of environmental pollutants. The release of leachate from municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill sites poses a severe hazard to human health and aquatic life. This study examined the impact of leachate from Delhi’s Ghazipur landfill on the nearby groundwater quality. Analysis of leachate samples was done to determine various parameters such as total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, alkalinity, electrical conductivity, pH, BOD5, COD, nitrate, sulphate, chloride and iron, and presence of coliform bacteria. Significant dissolved elements (22,690–34,525 mg/L) were observed in the samples, indicated by the high conductivity value (1156–1405 mho/cm). However, a stable pH range (6.90–7.80) of leachate samples was observed due to high alkalinity concentrations between 2123 and 3256 mg/L. The inverse distance weighing (IDW) interpolation tool from QGIS 3.22.7 developed spatial interpolated models for each parameter across the Ghazipur area. The IDW interpolated graphs of various parameters over the whole study area confirmed these contaminations. In addition, leachate and groundwater samples were physio-chemically analyzed, and temporal fluctuation in landfill waste has also been studied. The temporal fluctuation results showed that when heat is produced, transmitted, and lost throughout the waste system, the maximum temperature position fluctuates over time. The findings of this study highlight the critical importance of landfill management in reducing groundwater contamination from MSW leachate.

Evaluating the landfill leachate quality using leachate pollution index (LPI) and technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS)

Variability and diversity of landfill leachate cause difficulties in assessing the actual degree of threat to the environment and selecting an appropriate method of disposal or treatment. Therefore, quantifying leachate contamination potential is essential in landfill management and could be used to assess the accuracy of landfill operation and its impact on surrounding areas. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the performance of the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method and its suitability in determining leachate pollution potential in comparison to the Leachate Pollution Index (LPI) method. For this purpose, the quality of leachate from the landfill, collected four times a year from 2004 to 2021, was analysed. The following parameters were monitored: pH, EC, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cr, and Hg. On the basis of the measured parameters, the LPI and TOPSIS indexes were calculated. The obtained results indicated that the TOPSIS method is more sensitive and accurate in observing changes in leachate quality. It can be applied to any number of contaminant parameters without restrictions on scope, quantity, or their relative importance. It can also be used to compare the variations in leachate quality over time or to analyse differences in leachate quality among various landfill sites.