Remediation of Typical Municipal Solid Waste Dumpsite in Bangalore City

Abstract

This paper presents an approach to retrofit an existing municipal solid waste (MSW) dumpsite by enhancing the bioremediation process. The current practice of containing the waste in dumpsites/landfills is considered unsustainable due to their negative impact on the environment, society, and economy. Remediation of the existing open dumpsite helps in recovering the valuable land area at a faster rate due to the reduction in the time required for the waste stabilization process. The problem of leachate treatment can also be addressed adequately during the remediation process. Therefore, remediating an existing dumpsite can be classified as a step toward achieving sustainability in landfilling practice. In this study, an approach for remediating an existing municipal solid waste (MSW) dumpsite in Bangalore city is presented by addressing the three major aspects, viz., landfill gas (LFG), leachate, and the recovery of air space. In order to accelerate the biodegradation of MSW and avoid the possible groundwater contamination, a leachate recirculation system is designed. Modeling tools are used to estimate the LFG emission and to design the leachate collection and recirculation system. The methane oxidation potential of the digested mechanically and biologically treated (MBT) waste as a biotic system media is evaluated using column experiments. Biowindrows are then designed to mitigate the LFG emissions from the dumpsite.