Analysis of leachate from municipal landfill and studying it's impacts on the surrounding environment
Abstract
The disposal of solid waste presents a significant challenge for communities worldwide, whether in developed or developing countries, due to the inherent risks to human health and the environment. The physicochemical attributes and heavy metal contamination found in leachate samples are closely tied to the composition of Municipal Solid Waste and its water content. However, the current solid waste treatment system in many cities proves inadequate, leading to extensive waste disposal in open dump sites and a substantial influx of unsegregated waste to landfill areas. This unsegregated mixed waste poses a threat to nearby water bodies through the generation of leachate, as evidenced by high concentrations of both organic and inorganic constituents in the analysis. The BOD/COD ratio indicates a medium-aged leachate, surpassing standard discharge levels significantly and posing a potential risk of environmental contamination if left untreated. The presence of algae growth in adjacent water bodies further confirms the impact of leachate. Moreover, soil samples collected near dumpsites indicate contamination with heavy metals. Thus, it is imperative to treat leachate before its discharge into water bodies. Various biological aerobic and anaerobic treatment methods such as sequencing batch reactors, up-flow anaerobic sludge blankets, and membrane bioreactors can be considered. Effective solid waste management, particularly in countries like India, necessitates robust enforcement of proactive environmental policies and widespread community engagement in sustainable waste management practices.
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