The diagram illustrates the design and operation of modern landfill site used for household waste.
Overall, the process of managing waste in a landfill involves three main stages: construction, use, and closure. A man-made hole is first prepared, after which waste is deposited and managed, and finally the site is sealed once it is full.
Looking first at the construction stage, a large man-made hole is dug into natural rock. The hole is then lined with clay, and a synthetic lining is placed above it to prevent contamination. At the base, drainage pipes are installed, and a drainage tank is fitted so that waste liquid can be collected during use.
Focusing now on the use stage, household waste is deposited into the hole by trucks. Over time, the landfill is gradually filled, and waste liquid is channelled through the drainage pipes into the drainage tank, where it is collected safely.
When it comes to the closure stage, the landfill is sealed with a clay over once it is full. A pipe is installed so that gases produced by decomposing waste can be released. Finally, the site is fully closed, and the household waste remains buried underground.