Leachates from solid waste interacting with rainwater release toxic organic persistent pollutants that contaminate water resources, threatening human sustainability. Effective management is essential to prevent long-term environmental and health impacts.

Prof.(Dr.) R.C. Chhipa

Leachates resulting from the interaction of solid waste with water, especially rainwater, represent a serious environmental and public health concern. These leachates often contain high concentrations of heavy metals, organic pollutants (including Persistent Organic Pollutants – POPs), pathogenic microorganisms, and other toxic substances. Their infiltration into groundwater and surface water can lead to the contamination of drinking water sources, disruption of ecosystems, and accumulation of toxic substances in the food chain.

Due to the increasing amount of waste being generated and changes in precipitation patterns caused by climate change, this issue is becoming even more pronounced. In this context, solid waste management, as well as the treatment and control of leachate, are critical factors for environmental protection and the sustainability of human society.

It is necessary to implement modern waste disposal technologies (e.g., sanitary landfills with advanced leachate collection and treatment systems), as well as to develop regulatory frameworks and strategies that include waste prevention, recycling, and sustainable resource use.