Selection, design, and management of sanitary landfill site (s)‎ for Mosul city

Abstract EN

In this paper, two landfill disposal sites proposed by the Mosul municipality were compared, assessed and designated the east and west landfill sites, respectively.

Forty selected parameters related to landfill site suitability were used for the comparison.

The suitability of the site for each parameter was graded as “poor,” “fair,” “good,” or “excellent,” depending on the adequacy of the parameter relative to guidelines and landfill criteria.

The proposed sites appeared to meet most of the criteria required for similar facilities.

Based on the soil characteristics, groundwater quality, area capacity, and other specific parameters, however, the proposed east landfill site is superior to the west landfill site.

Mixed and area method models seemed suitable for these sites.

The results indicated that soil cover is urgently needed for the west site and, to a lesser degree, the east site.

Calculations based on Iraqi experience in landfill construction revealed that the east landfill site can be operated for 10 years, with 7 m of waste high.

For the west landfill site, the height of waste for the same period approaches 15 m.

Due to the complexity of the site topography, high cost burden, and lack of experience in implementing such project, it would be necessary to operate this site for 5 years with a waste height of 6.5 m.

Importantly, the findings of the study reveal no evidence for potential groundwater contamination.

It is concluded that construction of a proper sanitary landfill site for integrated solid waste management is a major necessity and should be a priority for the city of Mosul.