Characteristics of leachate from landfills and dumpsites in Asia, Africa and Latin America: a review update

Using published data, this chapter updated a previous review to examine différences in pollutant levels in the leachate between landfi Ils and dumpsites in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. A total of 3584 scientific articles published between 2018 and 2022 were initially identified in Scopus. After reviewing the abstracts, only 434 studies were selected, and the full text was examined. Finally, 38 studies were included in the review. However, some studies assessed more than one waste disposal site. Thus, 58 landfills and dumpsites were included. The most significant difference in the leachate between dumpsites and landfills generally occurred in climatic zone A. Indeed, significantly higher values in dumpsites were found for Cr, Ni, and Zn. Comparing the findings with the previous review confirms the differences in the levels of Cd and Pb between landfills and dumpsites. To mitigate these risks, it is vital for there to be investments in improving the waste management infrastructure and systems in Global South countries. In addition, there should be improved governance structures to enhance the enforcement of the existing policies.