How does a leachate collection system generally function?

A leachate collection system generally functions by allowing the liquid that has percolated through the landfill waste—known as leachate—to drain efficiently. In this system, leachate is directed to flow through a trench that incorporates a pipe positioned at a low point. This design enables gravitational flow, ensuring that leachate is effectively collected and transported away from the landfill site for further treatment or disposal.

This method is crucial for preventing leachate buildup, which can lead to potential environmental contamination and inefficiencies in landfill operation. By actively collecting leachate rather than leaving it to seep into the surrounding soil or be stored in open basins, landfill operations can mitigate the risk of groundwater pollution and manage the waste more sustainably. The systems are often equipped with pumps or other mechanisms to remove leachate as it accumulates, maintaining safe operational conditions.