What critical elements secure a landfill?
Four critical elements secure a landfill: a bottom line, a leachate collection system, a daily cover, and the natural hydrogeologic setting. The natural geologic setting of a landfill prevents wastes from escaping. Therefore, areas consisting of fractured bedrock are not recommended for landfills due to the possibility of leachate contact with local groundwater sources. (Top of Page) Why do we receive out of state waste? For years Wisconsin has received waste from surrounding states, primarily Minnesota and Illinois. This happens due to the fact that Wisconsins tipping fees are significantly lower than other neighboring states. They will continue to send waste across the state border as long as additional transportation costs do not exceed cost savings. As a result, out of state waste amounts for 10-15% of the waste stream currently entering Wisconsin landfills. How can we reduce the need for construction of new landfills in the future? Municipal Recycling Programs: Reduce, Reuse, And
