SUMMARY
The United States disposes of approximately 129 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) in landfills annually. To calculate the required landfill area for one year's worth of MSW, the landfill density is set at 800 lb/yd³, with a cell depth of 10 feet and one lift per year, where 80% of the cell volume is occupied by MSW. This results in a specific area requirement in acres per 1,000 people, which can be derived from these parameters. The assumption that 129 million tons of MSW are sent to landfills each year is confirmed by the EPA.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of municipal solid waste (MSW) management
- Knowledge of landfill density calculations
- Familiarity with volumetric conversions (cubic yards to acres)
- Basic grasp of environmental regulations and EPA guidelines
NEXT STEPS
- Research landfill density calculations using the formula for volume and weight
- Learn about the impact of landfill depth and lift frequency on area requirements
- Explore municipal solid waste generation statistics and trends in the US
- Investigate EPA regulations regarding landfill operations and waste management
USEFUL FOR
Environmental scientists, waste management professionals, urban planners, and policymakers involved in municipal solid waste management and landfill operations.