What's Leachate?

Leachate is the liquid that forms when water, such as rainwater, percolates through waste materials in a landfill, dissolving chemicals, toxins, and other pollutants from the waste. This resulting liquid often contains harmful contaminants, making it a potential environmental hazard.

To prevent leachate from contaminating surrounding soil and groundwater, modern landfills are equipped with leachate collection and treatment systems. These systems capture and treat the leachate, often through filtration, chemical treatment, or biological processes, before safely discharging it. Effective leachate management is essential for minimizing the environmental impact of landfills and protecting local ecosystems and water sources.