Enhancing municipal solid waste stabilization through sustainable aerobic landfill technologies

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Waste Management
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Aerobic bioreactor landfills (ABRLs) show potential for accelerated waste stabilization and reduced methane emissions.
• A comprehensive review of diverse aeration strategies and innovations in ABRLs is currently lacking.
• Understanding ABRL performance is crucial for advancing sustainable landfill management practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate operational principles, configurations, and performance metrics of ABRLs.
• To synthesize quantitative data from laboratory, pilot, and field lysimeter experiments.
• To identify challenges and propose strategies for optimizing ABRL design and monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and synthesis of published literature on ABRLs.
• Quantification of performance indicators including leachate chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction, waste settlement, and ammonia-nitrogen removal.
• Analysis of different aeration strategies (horizontal vs. vertical, leachate-based) and advanced recirculation techniques.

Main Results:

• Leachate COD reductions typically exceeded 85% under aerobic/recirculation regimes, with waste settlement ranging from 25% to 62.5%.
• Experiment durations varied, with longer-term projects showing continued stabilization trends.
• Aeration significantly influences key performance indicators; advanced techniques enhance microbial activity and stabilization.

Conclusions:

• ABRLs offer significant advantages for waste stabilization, leachate quality, and methane mitigation.
• Addressing challenges like oxygen distribution, moisture management, and energy demand is key to successful implementation.
• This review provides actionable insights for researchers and practitioners to improve sustainable landfill management aligned with climate goals.