Methane levels are spiraling in Washington and Oregon landfills

ByGemma Iso

October 31, 2023

Federal methane emission standards were consistently breached in landfills across Oregon and Washington revealing spiraling methane levels, a troubling disclosure unveiled by documents acquired by a prominent environmental group.

Landfill non-compliance

The Clean Air Act mandates that large landfill operators maintain methane concentrations below 500 parts per million, a pivotal measure in combating greenhouse gas emissions. However, inspection reports from the Environmental Protection Agency for May and June of 2022 disclosed a concerning pattern of non-compliance across four landfills in the Pacific Northwest.

Environmentalists and residents living in proximity to these landfills are sounding the alarm, calling for immediate action to curb this environmental menace.

The documents, obtained through public records requests by the environmental group Industrious Labs, brought these methane emissions to light, shedding light on a pervasive problem.

According to her, methane leaks like those found in Oregon and Washington likely occur more frequently than the public realizes. Regulatory authorities, she argues, must employ more effective measures to combat this silent crisis.

High methane levels

Residents living near landfills are growing increasingly concerned about the ecological and safety ramifications of these methane emissions. Kevin Kenaga, a resident near the Republic Services’ Corvallis facility, voiced his apprehension. He pointed out the potential dangers of “explosive” methane leaks in the event of a wildfire, especially since the landfill is surrounded by forests.

Blauvelt has called on regulators to establish standards for the type and thickness of materials used as landfill covers, as these are crucial in slowing methane emissions. She also advocates for more stringent requirements on landfill operators to implement gas capture systems more rapidly. Currently, many smaller landfills have no gas capture requirements, and larger ones can delay implementation for up to five years. This, she emphasizes, allows them to continue emitting methane without proper accountability. The revelations serve as a clarion call for comprehensive and immediate action to combat methane emissions, safeguard the environment, and protect the communities living near these landfills.