Understanding Landfills and Their Environmental Impact

The video explains the journey of rubbish to landfills, highlighting that landfills are engineered structures designed to isolate waste from the environment. It details the components of a landfill, including liners and leachate management systems, to prevent contamination. The video also discusses the production of landfill gas, primarily methane, and its potential use as an energy source. Despite these measures, landfills are not a sustainable solution, emphasizing the need for recycling and reusing waste.

What is the primary purpose of a landfill?

• To decompose waste quickly

• To isolate waste from the environment

• To incinerate waste

• To recycle waste

What is the main difference between a landfill and a compost pile?

• Compost piles isolate waste, landfills decompose it

• Landfills isolate waste, compost piles decompose it

• Compost piles are for incineration

• Landfills are for recycling

What material is typically used for the bottom liner in a landfill?

• Wood

• Metal

• Thick PVC

• Concrete

What is the role of a geotextile mat in a landfill?

• To prevent plastic sheeting damage

• To absorb waste

• To provide a habitat for bacteria

• To decompose waste

What is the purpose of the gravel layer in a landfill?

• To absorb waste

• To filter large debris

• To provide a habitat for animals

• To decompose waste

Why must leachate be treated before being removed from a landfill site?

• It is used in construction

• It is used for irrigation

• It contains harmful chemicals

• It is safe to drink

What is leachate?

• A type of gas

• Water containing waste chemicals

• A type of bacteria

• A type of soil

What is a potential hazard of landfill gas?

• It can cause fires

• It can explode

• It can freeze

• It can evaporate

How can methane from landfill gas be utilized?

• As a cleaning agent

• As a fertilizer

• As a cooling agent

• As an energy source

Why is extensive monitoring required for landfills?

• To reduce soil usage

• To ensure waste decomposes

• To prevent leachate from escaping

• To increase waste production