This leachate can contain nutrients, heavy metals such as lead and zinc, and residual chemicals such as pesticides. Odours and litter while the site is in operation. Noise and traffic congestion related to public use of the site and its operation. Disease transmission by pests such as rodents, birds, flies and cockroaches. Loss of resources when materials which may be reusable or recyclable are buried.
Recycling reduces the cost of disposal and saves on landfill space.
It therefore reduces the environmental problems associated with landfill. Recycling also conserves natural resources. Burning waste under controlled conditions reduces the need for landfill. However, environmentally acceptable incineration is currently more expensive than landfill and may still cause environmental problems, such as from disposal of ash residues in landfill. One benefit, however, may be the potential to utilise the energy produced by incineration for power or steam generation.