2019 SWANApalooza

Emerging Contaminants at Solid Waste Facilities (Room 210)

27 Feb 19
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Tracks: Landfill Symposium

The waste sector is faced with the evolution of contaminants of emerging concern (including per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances [collectively referred to as PFAS]). Not only are these compounds pervasive in leachate and groundwater at MSW, C&D and hazardous waste facilities, but they are generally resistant to biodegradation and are understood to be of concern to human health on sub-parts per billion levels. In light of public concern regarding impacts to drinking water, surface water, sediment and ecological receptors, many facilities are finding themselves receiving requests to sample or having to respond to sampling results completed by regulators, members of the public and/or citizen action groups. Ever-changing regulations associated with these compounds makes this communication even more challenging. This presentation will provide an overview of the sources of these compounds in solid waste facilities, the regulatory environment and considerations for PFAS management.