BIOREACTOR LANDFILL AS A PART OF THE WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Based on American and European experience, authorities are increasingly considering the possibility of introducing the so called bioreactor landfills into the current waste management system, particularly as in such landfills the degradation of organic part of municipal waste is accelerated by means of biological reactions. The toxicity of waste and the seepage rate is thus reduced, and the stabilization is achieved much faster. The basic operating principle is described, and the advantages and drawbacks of this novel disposal technology are given. Principal advantages of bioreactor landfills lie in rapid stabilization of waste savings in the disposal of seepage water, and lower landfill maintenance costs once the landfill is closed. Other advantages include a more efficient use of landfills and possible generation of income through sale of accumulated gas. Major drawbacks are the higher upfront investment costs, operator skill required, fire hazards, slopes stability problems, and possible damage to landfill liners.