ENERGY FROM SUSTAINABLE LANDFILLS

Any place where municipal solid waste (MSW) is dumped or disposed of in large quantities is, in principle, a bioreactor generating leachate and gases. Under strict anaerobic conditions, methane and carbon dioxide are the primary gases generated. When generated in a landfill, gas is often known as landfill gas (LFG). The goal of sustainable landfill management is to initiate quick methane formation and achieve maximum rates of waste degradation as early as possible after waste deposition. By intentionally developing a bioreactor in a landfill, it is possible to enhance conditions for biodegradation and thereby decrease both the time required for organic stabilization of the waste and to increase the LFG yield. This optimises the economics of methane recovery and stabilises the landfill so that the land can be returned to amenity use or landfill mining, and the void space re-used for waste disposal. The focus of this paper is on the concept and utility of sustainable landfill for management of municipal solid wastes and Energy generation. This knowledge can be applied to tailor Energy recovery, landfill mining operations, and environmental protection measures. Key words: landfills; energy recovery; sustainability; management Management of Municipal Solid Wastes (household garbage and rubbish, street sweepings, constructio