How Many Landfills Are In The UK?

How Many Landfills Are In The UK In 2024

There are approximately 540 landfills operating as of January 2024 in the UK. This number was shared by the government from data provided in cubic metres and collated into a national dataset.

Whilst waste sent to landfill sites increases, this can have a major impact on the UK’s pollution and global greenhouse gas emissions.

How Much Waste Is Sent To Landfill In The UK

Local authorities in London collected roughly 5000 metric tons of waste to be sent to landfills in the year ended March 31, 2023.

As of the UK on a whole, 222.2 million tonnes of waste was generated in 2018, with England responsible for 84% of the UK total. Much of this waste generated will be sent to landfills, rather than being recycled where possible. In 2020, biodegradable municipal waste sent to landfill in the UK reached 6,103 thousand tonnes, with municipal waste to landfill hitting 12,634.

What Happens To Waste In Landfills?

When waste produced is sent to landfill, it can fester for years emitting harmful toxins into the atmosphere and ground. This includes greenhouse gas, which comprises methane and carbon dioxide. Whilst waste biodegrades, it can release these gases which contribute to the rapid rate of global warming. Waste at landfills also releases leachate, a liquid that can pour into the surface and groundwater. From here, the toxin can cause environmental issues and threaten human health.

Source: BBC News

What Are Modern Landfills?

You may have also heard the phrase modern landfills. These are described as ‘well-engineered, managed facilities for solid waste.’ This means they are designed to protect the environment from contaminants. They are built using a layering system, which means waste can be isolated and monitored closely.

How Can We Reduce Waste Sent To Landfill In The UK

Making the public aware of the importance of recycling is one step to diverting waste from landfill. This includes segregating waste recycling correctly, and focusing more on waste disposal to always recycle appropriate materials. Items at home including plastic packaging, metal tins, glass, pots, and more are all recyclable. Some of the best countries for recycling have implemented strict rules and innovative recycling schemes to boost rates. As a business, you can partner with a specialist waste recycling company to ensure different waste streams are recycled correctly. This will then cut your carbon footprint whilst boosting your green credentials to attract more customers.

Recycle Your Waste & Divert Waste From Landfill Sites

At Plastic Expert we divert huge quantities of waste from landfill sites for businesses. Our waste management team can collect and recycle a range of materials including plastics, cardboard, paper, and even hazardous waste. If you are creating bulk loads of commercial waste then get in touch with our team. We can collect materials either on an ad-hoc or regular basis, and offer rebates for large volumes. Our business also provides recycling equipment to help you prepare and store bales ready to enter the recycling process.

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