State DEP to conduct survey on Zemel landfill odor
To the editor:
Noxious smelling gases generated by landfills continue to be problematic for the solid waste industry. It’s becoming an increasing and persistent issue that requires attention. The public is putting pressure on the industry to diminish these smells which are supported by topics such of “environmental racism.”
A typical landfill generates mainly methane and carbon dioxide at a 50-50 ratio both of these gasses are odorless and make up between 90 to 98 percent. This leaves the question which gasses are the culprit for the bad stench? Ammonia and hydrogen sulfide are the major offenders. These gasses are produced by decaying organic waste, specifically the bacteria that feast upon it. The amount of these gases whether they make up 2 or up to 10 percent depends on numerous factors such as the type of waste present, the age of the landfill, temperature etc. For example, large quantities of drywall dumped can generate hydrogen sulfide.
A successful odor control program needs to be implemented in order to solve this issue. WBI Construction and Demolition Landfill, Charlotte Country Bio-Recycling Facility, and Charlotte Country-owned landfill must all work together to determine if the odor is coming from the dump entirely or rather from a collection of these facilities.
Katrine Joyce Irene Hunter
Fort Myers