The Linn County Solid Waste Agency accepts more than 600 tons of garbage daily. The landfill coversmore than ten acres and is 70 feet deep. In June of 2044, the Linn County landfill will be full and permanently close. Local experts project the landfill to be full before 2044 due to increased debris after the 2020 Derecho storm that hit Eastern Iowa.

While June 2044 seems a long way off, local leaders are tasked with evaluating the county’s options. Alternative solutions such as thermal, chemical and biological to mange waste are being considered. Waste management is a global concern and numerous diversion practices have been created to lessen the impact on the environment.

Recycling requires items to be separated from the collection point and consumers play an important role in these programs. Separating paper products, cardboard and steel reduces the impact on landfills. The science of recycling includes collecting, marketing and distribution of the raw material for new products.