A recent decision by Maine Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Melanie Loyzim has opened a door that could allow the controversial landfill expansion to come to fruition.

What’s going on?

Accordingly Maine Morning StarThe Juniper Ridge Landfill in Maine will reach its current capacity limits in 2028. Due to the Maine DEP’s decision, Casella, the subsidiary that operates the landfill, will now be able to apply for an expansion license.

Local residents and environmentalists have been vocal about their concerns about air and water quality in surrounding areas if the expansion occurs.

The Juniper Ridge Landfill, which was last expanded in 2017, now accounts for more than half of Maine’s landfill waste. It is managed by the Bureau of General Services, which has proposed expanding the landfill by 61 acres and allowing use for about 11 more years.

From 2018 to 2022, landfill waste in Maine increased 24% and continues to increase at approximately 5.6% annually.

Why is landfill expansion important?

According to a State Law The expansion proposal adopted in 2021 cannot conflict with environmental justice. Maine DEP determined this would not be done as long as Casella met several conditions.

The Penobscot Nation, local residents, and environmentalists have all publicly voiced environmental justice concerns regarding the landfill expansion. They argued that landfill leachate (water that picks up chemicals as it passes through garbage) was not properly treated.

The groups were particularly concerned about PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, found in leachate flowing into the Penobscot River. The Penobscot Nation’s reservation on Indian Island is just three miles from the landfill and includes the river.

What is being done about air and water quality?

One of the conditions Casella must meet before expanding is a department-approved system to treat landfill leachate.

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Local residents also expressed concerns about air quality. Casella must pay the contractor to perform odor analysis in order to receive approval for the expansion.

Alexandra St., director of communities and toxics at the Conservation Law Foundation. According to Pierre, the environmental advocacy organization plans to appeal Loyzim’s decision.

According to the Maine Morning Star, St. “This decision recklessly gambles with public health and the environment,” Pierre said. “This ignores the serious concerns expressed by the Penobscot Nation and other nearby residents about the detrimental effects this expansion will have on their health and communities. We refuse to allow this dangerous expansion to proceed unchecked.”

Problems with landfills arise all over the country as waste management is an ongoing challenge. However new technology, recycling programsand efforts big companies all helping to create a positive impact.

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