Landfills

A landfill, sometimes referred to as a “dump”, is a waste management facility where waste materials are disposed of and buried in the ground. WM (formerly Waste Management) landfills are carefully engineered to minimize environmental impact and protect public health.

The process of creating a landfill starts with selecting a suitable site, taking into consideration factors such as proximity to population centers, geology, and hydrology. A liner system is constructed at the site to prevent leakage into the soil and groundwater. The liner typically consists of multiple layers of clay, plastic, and synthetic materials. This helps to create a barrier and isolate the waste from the surrounding environment.

Waste materials are then transported to the landfill, deposited in designated areas and covered with a layer of soil or other materials, known as daily cover, to reduce odor, control pests, and prevent littering.