The diagram illustrates the design of a modern landfill for household waste, showing its construction, use, and closure.
Overall, the landfill is built in several stages to safely store waste and prevent environmental pollution. It includes protective layers, drainage systems, and gas pipes to manage waste materials effectively.
In the construction stage, a man-made hole is dug into natural rock. The bottom and sides of the hole are covered with clay, followed by a synthetic lining to prevent leakage. At the base, drainage pipes are installed, which lead to a drainage tank designed to collect waste liquid.
During the use stage, household waste is deposited into the landfill. As the waste decomposes, liquid waste is produced and flows through the drainage system into the drainage tank below.
In the final stage, known as closure, the landfill is sealed with a clay cover. A pipe is added to allow gases produced by decomposing waste to escape safely. At this point, the landfill is no longer in use and is fully enclosed.