~2m
People live within one mile of a landfill
230
Landfills did not meet environmental standards
67%
of landfills have emissions exceeding levels reported to the EPA, according to satellite data.
AMERICA'S HIDDEN LANDFILL EMISSIONS
When you toss out your garbage, you likely realize it is destined for a landfill. But the impact of our waste isn’t limited to the ground. Many landfills bordering American neighborhoods and commercial areas release dangerous pollution that contributes to climate change and impacts human health. A close look at the data and new measurements show the scale of this expanding challenge.
There are more than 1,100 municipal solid waste landfills in the United States.
Municipal Landfill
2023 Significant Violations
Multiple 2023 Significant Violations
Informal Enforcement Actions
Formal Enforcement Actions
History of Violations
Potentially Underestimated
Environmental Justice Concern