Chapter 12 Notes #2

A landfill is a waste disposal facility where wastes are put in the ground and covered each day with dirt, plastic, or both. 50% of our waste end up in one They are generally lined with clay or plastic to stop leaks from entering the groundwater Can create explosive gases that can build up in nearby buildings Chemicals can leak out and pollute water Are meant to be long term storage sites Safer than old style open dumps

There are 2 main problems with landfills Leachate Water that contains toxic chemicals dissolved from wastes in landfills Landfills have a new system that they can use to collect and treat leachate Methane A colorless, odorless, flammable gas, CH 4 seeps underground into homes up to 1000 feet away The methane can also be captured to produce electricity

I NCINERATORS

Incinerator – a plant used for burning solid waste material. What it does Reduces solid waste sent to landfills by burning it to ash… Can use the heat to produce steam Incineration is not for all waste Some things just don’t burn Creates air pollution – toxic particles and other gases Ash still needs disposing of…

incinerators The steam can be used to generate electricity Space needed in the landfill is reduced Converts 30% of waste into toxic ash, which the EPA allows to be used as a daily landfill cover Some pollution Communities less likely to recycle Ash is more toxic than the waste itself Contaminates air, soil, and water.