Sustainable landfill fine fraction of waste reuse opportunities covering layer development

Abstract

Resources are lost in dumps from the time civilization knows itself. Solid waste handling through ‘zero waste’ concept is important for disposed waste reuse/recycling. The challenge for future is landfill mining (LFM) – one of the approaches dealing with that approach. We can think of recycling of valuable components such as plastic, metals and even rare soil elements if we have the right technology. Fine fraction of waste derived from excavated, separated and screened waste is also a perspective of circular economy as this inert fraction may serve as methane degradation layer for covering the old as well as new landfills. It may reduce harmful CH4 emissions and diminish the raw material use for closure of dumping sites. The aim of this study is to give an outlook on opportunities and describe other benefits for circular economy from innovative construction technology of cover layer. Rejected material may contain up to 40–60% of dump site/landfill mass and we may have interest in: 1) estimation of fine fraction of waste as functional construction material; 2) watching environmental effects – possible leaching and emissions; 3) keeping dumpsite revitalization as the master plan idea. First studies revealed the potential of fine fraction of dumpsite material for sustainable covering layer development. This study is supported by the project No.1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/531 ‘Innovative technologies for stabilization of landfills – diminishing environmental impact and resources potential in frames of circular economy'.