refuse cell
Quick Summary
A sanitary landfill is a method for the controlled disposal of municipal solid waste, also known as refuse. This process involves depositing waste in thin layers, compacting it with heavy machinery, and then covering it with soil at the end of each day to prevent odors and debris. Modern landfills are carefully designed and constructed with impermeable liners and groundwater monitoring systems to protect the environment and public health.12
A key component of a sanitary landfill is the "refuse cell," which is a confined area where waste is spread and compacted. These cells are covered daily with soil, and multiple cells can form a "lift". Over time, organic material in the landfill decomposes anaerobically, producing methane gas and leachate. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and can be explosive, while leachate is a highly contaminated liquid that can pollute groundwater. Modern landfills manage these by-products through gas-venting systems and leachate-collection systems, with some recovering methane for fuel.23
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