Work out leachate generation instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Leachate generation follows a water balance: rainfall on the active area, less runoff and evapotranspiration, gives infiltration; part is absorbed by unsaturated waste and the remainder emerges as leachate. Active uncapped areas generate far more than capped ones, which is why minimising the open working face matters.
Water balance
Infiltration = area x rainfall x infiltration coefficient; leachate = infiltration x (1 - absorption)
Leachate is a hazardous liquid requiring engineered containment, collection and treatment under permit. Uncontrolled release contaminates groundwater and is a serious offence.
It must be collected, stored and treated, usually at high cost because of ammonia and organic strength. Leachate treatment often dominates a landfill's operating cost and its post-closure liability.
Progressive capping, minimising the open face, surface water diversion away from waste, and temporary geomembrane covers over intermediate areas.