ADAPTING TO CHANGE: LANDFILL CLOSURE IN A BIG CITY

Solid waste management is a constant challenge for large cities around the world. In this context, landfills play a fundamental role in the final disposal of waste. However, sooner or later, every landfill reaches capacity and must be closed. Closing a landfill in a large city is a complex process that requires careful planning and community involvement. In this article, we will explore what to do when a landfill closes in a large city.

Evaluate and Plan Ahead

Landfill closure is not an overnight event. It requires extensive planning and a complete evaluation of available alternatives. Before closing a landfill, it is essential to consider remaining capacity, expansion options, and waste management alternatives.

The evaluation should involve experts in the field of solid waste management, environmental engineers, government officials, and community representatives. It is also essential to consider the financial aspect, since closing a landfill and implementing a new waste management strategy entails significant costs.

Transition towards Sustainable Solutions

The closure of a landfill must be accompanied by the implementation of sustainable solutions for waste management. A common option is the creation of recycling facilities and waste treatment plants, which allow the recovery of valuable materials and the reduction of the amount of waste destined for final disposal.

Additionally, encouraging source reduction and product reuse is essential. Educating the community on waste reduction practices can help decrease the amount of waste generated.

Community Participation and Awareness Raising

Active community participation is essential in the landfill closure process. Residents should be informed about upcoming changes and given the opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions. Raising awareness about the importance of reducing, recycling and reusing must be a priority.

It is essential to establish effective communication channels between local authorities and the community. Public meetings, educational campaigns and the dissemination of information through various media are key tools to ensure a successful transition.

Sustainable Infrastructure Development

The closure of a landfill can be an opportunity for the development of sustainable infrastructure in the city. Implementing recycling facilities and waste treatment plants not only reduces pressure on landfills, but also creates jobs and promotes the local economy.

Additionally, building parks and green spaces on land that previously housed landfill can improve the quality of life for residents and contribute to the revitalization of local communities.

Comprehensive Waste Management

Comprehensive waste management is essential in the transition after landfill closure. This involves the implementation of an efficient collection and transportation system, the promotion of recycling at home and the separation of waste at the source.

Comprehensive waste management should include proper waste classification, proper disposal of hazardous waste, and constant monitoring of waste management facilities.

Monitoring and Compliance with Regulations

The closure process of a landfill must comply with all current environmental regulations and standards. Local authorities must ensure that environmental impact assessments are carried out, leachate is properly managed and measures are taken to prevent contamination of soil and groundwater.

Constant monitoring is essential to assess the environmental impact of the closed landfill and ensure that no long-term negative consequences occur.

Financial Resources and Sustainability

Closing a landfill and implementing new waste management solutions requires significant financial resources.