The concept of landfill leachate recirculation stirs controversy. This method of repeatedly reapplying leachate to waste masses saves offsite disposal costs, and it boosts landfill gas production, an obvious plus for owners capitalizing on methane. But waste can get oversaturated, potentially triggering many problems.
Still, some landfills report leachate recirculation works for them, though one operator in particular admits it has run into unanticipated issues. Meanwhile, a University of North Carolina—Charlotte researcher found a way to improve leachate recirculation, with good data showing the method is fairly effective.
