ABSTRACT
One of the major potential pollution problems arising from the operation of landfills is the leachate that drains from the fill. Proper management of leachates, i.e., collection and treatment, is essential to avoid adverse environmental impacts. Several factors determine the production and composition of leachates, including the nature of the waste materials deposited, operation of the landfill, climate, hydrogeological conditions, and age of the landfill. Typically, landfill leachate is characterized by the extremes of pH, BOD5, NH3, alkalinity and metals. Extensive characterization and pilot studies are an effective tool and perhaps essential in the design and selection of a consistent and reliable leachate treatment system that is capable of meeting the ever increasing regulatory requirements.
