Environmental Efforts

As an environmental protection, the Perdido Landfill disposal area is lined with an impermeable geosynthetic liner to prevent groundwater contamination. Rainwater and other liquids, referred to as leachate, filter through the disposal area. A system of pumps transfers the leachate to holding ponds on the landfill for initial treatment. The leachate is then pumped to an Emerald Coast Utilities Authority reclamation facility for final treatment. This extensive groundwater system is monitored and reported on semi-annually under the FDEP Solid Waste Permit.

Completed in 2010, the Landfill Gas-To-Energy System is a partnership with Gulf Power. A series of pipes captures methane, carbon dioxide and other gases generated by the decomposing waste. The gas is converted to electricity which is then transferred to the local power grid. Currently, the landfill contributes enough electricity to power 1,000 homes annually. Air quality is monitored and reported under the EPA Title V Air Permitting Program.