What is the main function of landfill liners, which can be up to 4 feet thick?

Landfill liners play a crucial role in protecting groundwater quality by preventing leachate, which is the liquid that drains or leaches from a landfill, from contaminating nearby groundwater sources. With their thickness, often reaching up to 4 feet, these liners are designed to create a barrier that allows for the safe containment of waste materials, thereby minimizing the risk of environmental pollution. The integrity of the liner is essential in preventing harmful substances from infiltrating the ground and ensuring that the water sources remain clean and safe for consumption and ecosystem health.

While protecting air quality, preventing erosion, and eliminating odors are important aspects of landfill management, they are secondary to the primary directive of landfill liners, which is the protection of groundwater. This is critical not only for public health but also for the protection of natural water resources.