What is a common material used as Alternative Daily Cover (ADC)?

Alternative Daily Cover (ADC) is a material used on the surface of landfills to cover exposed waste after daily operations. The purpose of using ADC is to minimize odor, pests, and litter while also providing some erosion control.

Foams and vegetative waste are common materials used as ADC because they can effectively serve the purpose of covering the landfill while being environmentally sustainable. Vegetative waste, such as tree trimmings and grass clippings, is biodegradable and can help in integrating ecological practices within landfill operations, whereas foams can provide a lightweight covering that is easy to handle and apply.

Using a variety of materials as ADC can help divert organic waste from landfills and minimize the environmental impact. This practice supports waste management strategies focused on sustainability and resource recovery. In contrast, options that suggest using only soil or plastics do not reflect the diverse materials that can contribute to effective ADC practices, and heavy metal scraps are unsuitable due to their toxicity and potential environmental hazards.