Landfill leaks inevitable

DO LANDFILLS LEAK?

Yes. Current landfill regulations limit the amount of leakage but do not prohibit leaks.

Landfill liners are made of soil separated by a sheet of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), delivered in large rolls and heat welded in the field. HDPE is available thicknesses ranging from 40 mil to 120 mil. The DEC minimum standard is 60 mil. Part 360-2.13(k)(2)(i).

The DEC began requiring liners and leachate collection systems for landfills after December 1988, to meet minimum protections mandated by the EPA. ... Read more.