Landfill Mining: Significance, Operation and Global Perspectives

Landfilling has gained worldwide notoriety in solid wastes management and disposal, however, in addition to occupying valuable spaces, traditional old landfills are responsible for greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, water sources pollution by landfill leachate, and major environmental issues. Landfill mining (LFM) can be a solution to the environmental problems caused by landfilling, furthermore, it consists of the recovery of valuable scarce raw materials such as copper, aluminum, gold, or other valuable metals and combustibles, resulting in the conversion of waste to wealth. This book chapter points out the significance and benefits of LFM, mining techniques, and the importance of feasibility studies. LFM practices are growing, especially in European countries, the USA, China, and India, however, some countries are still unfamiliar with the practice. Though LFM as a reuse or reclamation technique, is a promising solid waste management process, some key factors need to be addressed for the acceptance and adequate integration of the process.