The presence of Elevated Temperature Landfills (ETLFs) has been a novel phenomenon causing extensive health problems and damaging the economy of neighboring communities. The appearance of this phenomenon in model cities such as Cleveland, OH, Chicago, IL and St. Louis, MO has provided limited knowledge of the chemical indicators and impacts of ETLFs. It becomes imperative to predict the starting conditions of an ETLF to prevent further incidents and public health impacts on communities. Currently ETLFs are characterized as having elevated temperatures beneath the surface (55°C) that continues to generate heat and are highly saturated with large amounts of leachate requiring a large biological oxygen demand (BOD). Additionally, landfill gas contains relatively low concentration of methane compared to carbon dioxide concentrations along with large concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene. With ETLFs, the settlement of the land rapidly declines followed by the release of volatile organic compounds and other chemical gaseous odors. Understanding the impending impacts of VOCs and leachate that are released into the neighboring communities, should help correlating health symptoms and experiences within communities. In this talk, an environmental chemistry perspective of the matter will be presented for current ETLF closure or remediation. Future generations will benefit by the continued characterization of ETLFs needed to improve the public health and addressing environmental justice of neighboring communities.

Impact of elevated temperature landfills on neighboring communities

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.