Looking at modern landfill systems

Rubbish or waste is part of our lives. How we deal with it has changed through the ages. We know that out of sight, out of mind is a fallacy, and what we bury today has the potential to affect the environment for centuries. As a result, central and local governments regulate the construction and use of landfills.

In this activity, students use an interactive to explore modern landfill construction. The accompanying activities provide opportunities to deepen understanding regarding the history and science of landfills and how students can take action to reduce what goes into landfills.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

• label the components of a modern landfill system

• discuss how these engineering practices help to protect us and the environment

• consider how waste disposal practices have changed over time

• consider how to further manage and minimise personal waste footprints.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

• background information for teachers

• student instructions.