TUTORIAL TOPIC 6

MUHAMMAD AFIQ ARSYAD BIN ALADIN

12106121055

1. Define the following term:

a) Landfill : A landfill is a designated area of land used for the
disposal of waste materials. It involves burying waste in layers and
covering it with soil daily or periodically to reduce environmental
impact. Landfills are a common method of waste disposal,
especially for non-recyclable and non-compostable materials.
b) Sanitary Landfills : Sanitary landfills are engineered landfill sites
designed to minimize environmental impact and reduce health
hazards associated with waste disposal. They employ measures
such as liners to prevent leachate (contaminated water) from
entering the soil and groundwater, as well as systems to collect
and treat gas emissions produced by the decomposing waste.
c) Secure Landfills : Secure landfills refer to land disposal sites that
are specifically designed to accept hazardous waste. These
landfills are equipped with engineered barriers and containment
systems to prevent the release of hazardous substances into the
environment.
d) Landfilling : Landfilling is the process of disposing of waste by
placing it in a designated landfill. It involves the controlled burial
of waste materials in a manner that minimizes environmental
impact and complies with regulatory standards. Landfilling is a
common method for managing solid waste, although efforts are
made to reduce reliance on landfills through increased recycling
and waste reduction practices.
2. State three advantages and disadvantages of using landfills as a solid
waste disposal method.
Advantages of Landfills:
 a) Cost-Effective: Landfills are often considered a cost-effective
method of waste disposal, especially for communities or regions
where land is readily available. The initial investment and
operating costs can be lower compared to some alternative waste
management methods.
b) Convenient and Versatile: Landfills offer a convenient way to
dispose of a wide range of waste types, including materials that
are not easily recyclable or compostable. They provide a versatile
solution for managing diverse waste streams.
c) Land Reclamation Potential: After a landfill reaches its capacity,
the site can potentially be reclaimed for other purposes, such as
green spaces, recreational areas, or even renewable energy
projects. However, successful reclamation depends on proper
landfill closure and post-closure procedures.
Disadvantages of Landfills:
a) Environmental Impact: Landfills have significant environmental
drawbacks, including the potential for soil and water
contamination. Improperly managed landfills can result in the
release of harmful chemicals, greenhouse gases (e.g., methane),
and leachate, which can contaminate nearby groundwater.
b) Limited Space and Aesthetic Issues: Landfills require vast amounts
of space, and in densely populated areas, finding suitable
locations can be challenging. Landfills also contribute to aesthetic
issues, as they often generate unpleasant odors, attract pests, and
can be visually unappealing.
c) Long-Term Environmental Liabilities: Landfills pose long-term
environmental liabilities, as they can emit harmful gases for many
years after closure. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas produced
during the decomposition of organic waste, can continue to be
released for decades, contributing to climate change.
3. Explain the operational phase of a sanitary landfill.
- The operational phase of a sanitary landfill involves the systematic and
controlled deposition of waste while implementing engineering
measures to minimize environmental impact. During this phase, waste
materials are carefully placed in designated cells or areas, and each layer
is compacted to optimize space utilization. Daily cover materials, such as
 soil or alternative materials, are applied to reduce odor, control litter,
and discourage pests. Environmental controls, including liners and
leachate collection systems, are utilized to prevent the migration of
contaminants into the surrounding soil and groundwater. Methane gas
generated by the decomposition of organic waste is often collected and
managed to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Adequate compaction
and cover procedures help maintain the stability of the landfill and
reduce settlement. Continuous monitoring of gas emissions, leachate,
and other environmental factors is conducted to ensure compliance with
regulations and protect the surrounding ecosystem. The operational
phase concludes when the landfill reaches its designed capacity, leading
to closure and post-closure care phases.

4. Anaerobic decomposition and microbial activity contribute to the

highest amount of gas components found within a landfill site. Explain
how to manage landfill gases.
5. Explain how to manage landfill gases.
- Managing landfill gases is crucial to mitigate environmental impacts
and harness their potential as a renewable energy source. A
comprehensive approach involves the installation of a gas collection
system within the landfill, comprising vertical and horizontal pipes to
capture gases, particularly methane, generated by anaerobic
decomposition. Collected landfill gas can be flared or, more sustainably,
directed to a gas recovery facility for utilization in electricity generation
or heating applications. To enhance gas recovery, wells are strategically
placed to extract gas from different depths within the landfill. Regular
monitoring and maintenance of the gas collection system are essential
to optimize efficiency and ensure the safety of landfill operations.
Effective management of landfill gases not only minimizes their
contribution to greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes the
sustainable utilization of a valuable energy resource.
6. What is leachate?
- Leachate is a liquid that results from the percolation of water through a
landfill or any other solid waste disposal site. As rainwater or other
liquids come into contact with the waste materials in a landfill, they
dissolve or absorb various compounds, including organic and inorganic
substances, chemicals, and pollutants. This resulting liquid, known as
leachate, can contain a mixture of contaminants and is often
characterized by its high organic content, color, and potential for
environmental harm. Leachate has the potential to migrate into the
surrounding soil and groundwater, posing a risk of pollution.
7. Explain how to control leachate production in a landfill.
- To control leachate production in a landfill, various engineering and
operational measures are employed. A key strategy is the installation of
liners at the base and sides of the landfill to prevent the downward
migration of leachate into the underlying soil and groundwater.
Additionally, a system of leachate collection pipes or channels is
implemented to capture and redirect the leachate to a treatment facility
or for safe disposal. Proper compaction of waste layers reduces the
permeability of the landfill, minimizing the infiltration of water and
reducing leachate production. Effective stormwater management,
including the diversion of rainwater away from active landfill areas, also
helps control leachate generation. Regular monitoring and maintenance
of the landfill, coupled with appropriate cover materials, further
contribute to controlling leachate production and safeguarding
environmental quality.
8. How to control small animals and insects at a landfill?
- To control small animals and insects at a landfill, it is essential to
implement a combination of physical and operational measures. Fencing
and barriers help restrict access, preventing animals from scavenging
and spreading waste. Regular maintenance and repair of the landfill
perimeter are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of these barriers.
Proper waste cover procedures, such as daily covering with soil or
alternative materials, discourage pests by minimizing exposed waste and
reducing odors. Additionally, ongoing waste compaction limits potential
habitats for rodents and insects. Integrated pest management practices,
such as the use of repellents or traps, may be employed, and routine
monitoring of the landfill site for signs of infestation allows for prompt
intervention. Collaborative efforts with local pest control authorities and
community education on waste disposal practices also contribute to the
overall success of controlling small animals and insects at the landfill.