The issue of landfill fires is becoming increasingly pressing, especially in regions where unsanitary landfills are located close to residential areas. A recent study published in ‘Bakar’, which translates to ‘The Baker’, sheds light on the environmental and health risks posed by these fires, particularly focusing on the unsanitary landfill Mislov do in Nikšić, Montenegro. The research, led by Novak Emil from Nik COM doo, outlines critical steps for diagnosing, mitigating, and extinguishing fires in these hazardous waste sites.
Fires on landfills not only threaten local air quality but can also have far-reaching effects, contaminating the atmosphere up to several tens of kilometers away. The study reveals that these fires often result from improper waste management practices, including inadequate compaction and insufficient daily cover. This allows for the accumulation of surface oxygen, creating conditions conducive to anaerobic methanogenesis in deeper layers of waste. The result is the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that is 21 times more damaging to the ozone layer than carbon dioxide.
Emil emphasizes the urgency of the situation: “The installation of gas wells, or biotubes, on unsanitary landfills is essential for preventing fires and minimizing the risk of methane pocket formation.” This proactive approach not only aids in monitoring landfill conditions but also plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions that can contribute to climate change.
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental concerns; they touch on the commercial landscape as well. The mining sector, often intertwined with waste management practices, stands to benefit significantly from the findings. By adopting better landfill management techniques and investing in gas extraction technologies, mining companies can not only mitigate environmental risks but also enhance their corporate responsibility profiles. This shift could lead to improved public perception and potentially open up new avenues for sustainable practices within the industry.
As the project at Mislov do unfolds, it aims to deliver measurable and sustainable results, paving the way for enhanced environmental protection. Emil’s work illustrates a growing recognition of the need for integrated waste management strategies that can safeguard both public health and the environment.
The insights from this study are a call to action for local governments and industries alike. As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the findings from this research underscore the importance of addressing landfill fires and their associated risks. The potential for innovation in waste management practices could very well shape the future of both the mining sector and environmental conservation efforts.
