AIR QUALITY AND ODOR IMPACTS FROM LANDFILL-RELATED EMISSIONS

Because of series of recent federal air quality regulations, municipal solid waste (MSW)landfills have come under increased scrutiny with respect to landfill-derived emissions. Provided below is a summary of the types and typical magnitudes of emissions at landfills, resulting from various operational activities. In addition, the major federal air quality regulations that affect MSW landfills are described with respect to how those regulatory programs are intended to reduce or control landfill emissions.The major sources of pollutants at MSW landfills, including landfill gas (LFG) fugitive emissions, LFG combustion by-products, fugitive dust from roads and landfill operations, and composting emissions are specifically addressed. Data are provided on the most up-to-date emission factors and methodologies that are being used in the MSW industry for emission estimates, including a critical review of several outdated factors and methods.In addition to the emissions data, information is provided on the types of analyses that are being conducted to assess the ambient air quality, human health, and odor/nuisance impacts from landfill-derived emissions as well as suggested possible improvements to these methodologies based on real-word experience. These include odor analyses, air dispersion modeling, and air toxic risk assessment.