Landfills
Landfills store waste in controlled environments. While organic materials break down over time, this process releases greenhouse gases such as methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). Many modern landfills use systems to capture methane and convert it into energy, either to power the facility itself or feed it back into the energy grid.
Modern Landfills
To prevent contamination of surrounding soil and groundwater, modern landfills carefully layer waste with organic and inorganic materials. A protective liner, typically made from clay or plastic, ensures harmful substances stay contained.
Decomposition Times of Common Materials
-
Paper waste: 2–6 weeks
-
Biodegradable plastics: 3–6 months
-
Nylon fabric: 30–40 years
-
Aluminium cans: 80–200 years
-
Plastic bottles: 450 years or more
-
Glass bottles: Up to 1 million years
Landfills are designed to store waste safely, but these decomposition timelines highlight the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Recycling items like paper, plastics, and glass can significantly reduce landfill waste and lower the environmental footprint