Classification of unregulated landfills by waste stream analysis method, a case of Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality, South Africa

Abstract

The characterisation of unregulated landfills as general landfills is misleading particularly because these landfills are used to dispose of a mixed stream of general and hazardous waste. Unregulated landfills are unlicensed on-land waste disposal facilities that are not designed, constructed or operated according to any regulatory framework. These landfills are common among non-metropolitan municipalities in South Africa. This paper tests how waste stream analysis can be useful in the pre-characterisation of unregulated landfills. Thus, it is proposed that a waste source trace method be used to pre-classify the waste streams disposed of in the landfills and ultimately for the characterisation of the landfills. Structured interviews and observations were used to trace the origin and types of waste materials disposed of in three unregulated landfills in the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. The results show that the landfills resorting under the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality were used to dispose of a mixed stream of general and hazardous waste. These landfills should therefore be pre-characterised as hazardous waste landfills, and stringent management measures are recommended in this regard. This proposed method for waste stream analysis and pre-characterisation of unregulated landfills has proven to be effective.