Research on green landfill solution to close Cam Ha solid waste landfill, Hoi An City

Abstract

The Cam Ha solid waste landfill in Hoi An city has been in operation for over 30 years and is now severely overloaded, leading to significant soil, groundwater, and air pollution. The landfill was not constructed to meet sanitary standards: it lacks a bottom liner, leachate collection and treatment systems, and biogas capture. Moreover, it is located within the Hoi An cemetery and directly beneath a high-voltage power line, posing serious risks of structural failure and explosion due to methane gas accumulation. Given these concerns, the renovation and closure of the landfill have become urgent priorities to ensure environmental safety and restore the urban landscape. This study proposes a renovation plan based on the "green landfill" model, with key technical components including: (i) Renovating landfill cells using waterproof liners and a leachate recirculation system; (ii) Collecting and treating biogas with natural adsorbent materials; (iii) Constructing biological ponds and vegetated filter beds to treat surface water; (iv) Utilizing solar energy to power the technical systems; and (v) Creating green landscape areas for community activities.

This approach not only addresses pollution control and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, but also transforms the site into a functional ecological space. The model is highly feasible, well-suited to small and medium-sized urban areas, and offers strong potential for replication in other localities to support green and sustainable urban development.