Leachate as a Source of Microplastic Dispersal

Although most microplastics (<5 mm in length or diameter, depending on shape) are not visible they can be found everywhere in the environment. The effects can be devastating and much greater than what has been proven so far, as there is a lack of knowledge about the impact, spread and extent of microplastics. The Swedish EPA published a report in June 2017 which reveals a number of major microplastic sources. One of the potential sources according to this report is landfills, but there is no data of these leaking particles. The purpose of this study is therefore to highlight the current microplastic problem and to examine the presence of microplastics in leachate from landfills. Information is collected through a laboratory analysis, scientific articles, reports and communication with experts in relevant areas. Four unpurified and two purified leachate samples (with Sequencing Batch Reactor-technique) were collected from two landfills in southern Sweden. One hundred random particles (2-200 μm) from each sample were analyzed and classified into different groups. All the unpurified leachate samples did contain microplastics. This study shows that leachate is a microplastic source. The significance of this source is not yet investigated, hence more research is required. Especially since leachate should not cause any harm of the humanity nor environment accoring to Swedish legislation. Leachate from active landfills in Sweden is treated either through a local site or municipal wastewater treatment plants. Despite this, plastic particles end up in the environment, for example through sludge that end up on farmlands. Some older, inactive landfills lack leachate treatment which may cause a local contamination as well. At present there is a lack of legislation regarding microplastics, which partly is a consequence of the absence of a standardized analytical method. Microplastics with or without additives can be an endangerment to humans and the environment and should therefore be prioritized.