Methane is produced from the bacteria that decompose organic wastes placed in the landfill. Wastes like food, paper and yard waste are slowly digested by these bacteria in the absence of oxygen giving off methane, carbon dioxide and moisture. This gas has, in the past, been collected from wells drilled into the landfill and simply burned in combustion towers. Collection and incineration keeps the odors down. However this useful natural gas product has the potential for greater uses.

For more information about this and other components of our company watch one of our self-guided slide shows.