What component is essential in determining compaction density within a landfill?

The initial moisture content of the waste is critical in determining compaction density within a landfill because it directly affects how easily the waste can be compacted. When the moisture content is appropriate, it helps to bind the materials together, allowing them to be compressed more effectively. If the waste is too dry, it can create air pockets and hinder effective compaction, while waste that is too wet may lead to inefficient density as it can become too heavy and clump together rather than compact uniformly.

While the number of landfill workers can influence efficiency and productivity, it does not directly impact the fundamental properties of compaction. The size of the landfill space may determine capacity but does not affect how well the waste can be compacted. Similarly, the transfer of waste from one site to another is not related to compaction density itself; rather, it deals with logistics and operations surrounding waste management. Thus, the initial moisture content stands out as the key factor in achieving optimal compaction density.