Methane emissions from waste are a pressing environmental issue, contributing to climate change and air pollution. Here’s a concise overview:
Sources:
Landfills: Decomposing organic waste in landfills generates methane.
Wastewater Treatment: Anaerobic conditions in treatment plants produce methane from sewage sludge.
Organic Waste Management: Improper handling of organic waste leads to methane emissions, especially through practices like open burning.
Impact:
Climate Change: Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to global warming.
Air Quality: Methane emissions degrade air quality and pose health risks to communities.
Mitigation:
Landfill Gas Capture: Systems collect methane from landfills for energy production.
Waste Diversion: Composting and anaerobic digestion reduce methane emissions by diverting organic waste from landfills.
Improved Practices: Covering landfills and optimizing wastewater treatment minimize methane generation.
Addressing methane emissions from waste is crucial for mitigating climate change and protecting public health.
