Proposal for a Sanitary Landfill Closure Plan Model Using Multi-Criteria Decision Support Tool

Abstract

The closure of sanitary landfills is a critical issue due to the environmental and social impacts they generate. This study proposes a closure plan based on a multicriteria decision support tool, considering environmental, economic, and social criteria. The methodology includes identifying relevant criteria, defining alternatives, applying the multicriteria tool, and selecting the best strategy. The approach seeks to minimize impacts, promote public safety, and address local demands, contributing to more sustainable practices in solid waste management. The study employed a descriptive, explanatory, and exploratory methodology, consulting experts to validate the steps of the closure process. Using the SNOWBALL technique, 10 specialists from various fields, including environmental engineering, biology, and governmental agencies, were selected. The results highlighted a consensus among university professors and the diverse perceptions of professionals from academic and industrial sectors. The participation of an environmental engineer linked to an industrial construction company brought a practical perspective, connecting academic theory to private sector needs. The proposed plan model follows guidelines covering phases from diagnosis to post-closure maintenance, focusing on rehabilitating the area and integrating it into the community. Continuous monitoring reinforces environmental responsibility, ensuring the process's sustainability. Thus, the study offers a strategic model for the closure of sanitary landfills, aligned with contemporary demands for responsible and efficient environmental management.