ABSTRACT
This paper compares the significant differences between landfills which are sited and designed based on inward hydraulic gradient as opposed to those with an outward gradient. Specific examples of both type of landfills will be discussed. Current design trends favor the outward gradient and the exclusion of all moisture sources for an extended period of time. The authors believe that these design requirements are simply postponing the normal biodegradation of the organic waste within a municipal waste landfill and suggest that inward gradient sites may prove to be a better design alternative.
