Landfills Emitting More Methane Than Previously Reported, Study Finds
A recent study published in the journal Science has revealed that open landfills in the United States are emitting methane at a much higher rate than previously reported to federal regulators. The study, which measured methane emissions at about 20 percent of large, operating landfills in the country, found that these emissions are almost three times higher on average than what was previously estimated.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, is released from landfills as organic waste decomposes. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that landfills are the third largest source of human-caused methane emissions in the United States, emitting as much greenhouse gas as 23 million gasoline cars driven for a year.
The study, led by climate scientist Daniel H. Cusworth from Carbon Mapper and the University of Arizona, used airplane flyovers equipped with imaging spectrometers to measure methane concentrations in the air above landfills. Researchers detected emissions hot spots at more than half of the landfills surveyed, indicating leaks of trapped methane from decomposing trash.
While many landfills have systems in place to collect and manage methane emissions, leaks can still occur. Identifying and fixing these leaks is crucial in reducing methane emissions from landfills. Additionally, reducing the amount of organic waste sent to landfills, such as through composting food scraps, can help mitigate methane emissions.
The study highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing methane emissions from landfills in the fight against climate change. With the launch of methane-detecting satellites like MethaneSat by the Environmental Defense Fund and upcoming initiatives from Carbon Mapper, there is hope for better tracking and management of methane emissions on a global scale.
