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Extended Environmental Multimedia Modeling System (EEMMS) with Analytic Hierarchy Process for Dual Evaluation of Energy Consumption and Pollutants in Solid Waste

Summary

This study examined how landfill leachate pollution spreads through groundwater toward Canadian territory. Scientists used computer models to track the movement of organic matter (BOD) over 20 years from the CFSWMA landfill. The findings showed that while some contamination reaches the Canadian border, concentrations decrease along the way. The research recommends installing barriers to block pollutants and proposes a balanced approach considering both environmental safety and energy efficiency in waste management.

Background

Landfill leachate poses significant environmental risks through groundwater contamination. Traditional single-media pollution assessment models have limited accuracy in predicting pollutant fate and cross-media interactions. The CFSWMA landfill in Canada requires assessment of potential transboundary impacts on Quebec waters.

Objective

To develop an integrated framework combining the Extended Environmental Multimedia Modeling System (EEMMS) with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for dual assessment of environmental risks and energy consumption from landfill leachate. The study aimed to model BOD migration over 20 years and evaluate contamination risks to Canadian territory.

Results

BOD migration modeling showed concentrations between 0.01-0.1 mg/L reaching Canadian territory after 20 years. High-risk zones were identified within 10-100 m of the source with mean concentrations around 25 mg/L. The comprehensive risk index (W_total = 0.42) indicated acceptable energy consumption and risk levels. Non-sorptive chemicals were primarily controlled by groundwater flow while sorptive chemicals were affected by partition coefficients.

Conclusion

The integrated MODFLOW-EEMMS-MCM framework successfully modeled pollutant transport and quantified environmental risks. Hydraulic barriers along the downstream gradient are recommended to prevent contaminant migration. The dual assessment framework balancing environmental safety and energy efficiency provides practical guidance for sustainable landfill management and remediation design optimization.
  • Published in:Toxics,
  • Study Type:Case Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/toxics13100878
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