Which of the following statements are correct regarding landfills ? 1. The landfill must be proximate to wastewater treatment facilities. 2. Landfills are not compatible with airport siting. 3. The bottom of the landfill must be below the highest expected groundwater elevation. Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- A1 and 2 onlyCorrect
- B2 and 3 only
- C1 and 3 only
- D1, 2 and 3
Solution
Concept
Landfill siting criteria
Step-by-step solution
1. Proximity to a wastewater treatment facility is desirable so that leachate can be treated (statement 1 accepted). 2. Landfills attract birds, which are hazardous to aircraft, so they must be kept away from airports (statement 2 correct). 3. The bottom of a landfill must be ABOVE the highest expected groundwater level to avoid contamination (statement 3 is wrong).
Explanation
Siting a landfill requires protection of groundwater and of aircraft. The base liner must be kept above the seasonal high water table, so statement 3 is incorrect.
Why the other options are wrong
Options containing statement 3 (B, C, D) are wrong since the base must be above the groundwater table.
Shortcut
Landfill base ≥ 1.5–2 m above the highest groundwater level; ≥ 8–10 km from airports.
Common mistake
Thinking the landfill can sit below the water table.
Correct answer: A) 1 and 2 only