Design and Development of a Sanitary Landfill for Low Income Countries for Optimal Waste Management

Proper waste management in developing countries is increasingly becoming popular, especially the use of engineered sanitary landfills. In this study, the classification, design, and operation of sanitary landfills are stated and suggestions made. The landfills were classified in accordance to waste type and population size. Leachate control mechanisms were put in place in a bid to avoid surface and underground water pollution. Several liner materials such as clay and geotextile material are recommended to avoid leachate perforating into the ground. Waste management is encouraged to be done through the cell system which must be compacted and covered on a daily basis. Resource recovery of biogas for power generation is recommended to recovery value from the waste as well as to lower landfill operation costs. Post-closure monitoring of the landfill must be done and recreation centers can be developed on the landfill as a rehabilitation strategy. Land filling is essential for proper waste management and is also governed by local acts.