Guidance note on recuperation of landfill gas from municipal solid waste landfills

Any place where municipal solid waste is dumped or disposed of in large quantities is a bioreactor generating leachate and gases. When generated in a landfill, this gas is often known as landfill gas (LFG). LFG is a powerful greenhouse gas. When released in unmanaged fashion, LFG may contribute two to four percent global greenhouse gas emissions. When LFG is combusted, its effect as a greenhouse gas is significantly reduced. If LFG is recovered, it provides a source of energy that can be utilized for several energy-producing purposes and thereby generate revenue for the landfill. The objective of this technical guidance note is to provide practical in order to better prepare for projects that involve landfilling of municipal solid waste and, in particular, those projects that involve LFG recovery and developing an enhanced bioreactor landfill.