HOW MUCH WASTE ENDS UP IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY LANDFILL

Written By Reid Dressler

Have you ever wondered how much waste goes into the Wilmington, NC landfill?

A city's Waste Management strategies are an important topic for any growing city, and Wilmington North Carolina, is no exception. Wilmington generates a large amount of waste each year, as to be expected by the largest city in the southeastern part of the state. The key to addressing environmental sustainability and promoting responsible waste disposal practices begins by understanding the volume and types of waste that enter the landfill.

To begin let's look at the numbers that make up Wilmington’s Waste

Wilmington’s municipal solid waste (MSW) is mainly overseen by New Hanover County. The county’s landfill is not only serving Wilmington but also surrounding areas in New Hanover County per recent reports:

  • The New Hanover County Landfill receives approximately 230,000 tons of waste annually.

  • This waste includes municipal solid waste, construction and demolition (C&D) debris, yard waste, and unfortunately, recyclables.

  • Although steadily growing, the landfill currently serves a population of over 200,000 residents.

Types of Waste received

The landfill manages many types of Waste, including:

  • Municipal Solid Waste (MSW): Everyday items such as food waste, packaging, and household trash. Also known as Garbage.

  • Recyclable Materials: Materials such as cardboard, plastics, and metals are diverted through county-run recycling programs to maintain sustainable practices.

  • Construction and Demolition Debris: Waste from construction projects, such as wood, concrete, and drywall.

  • Yard Waste: Material Organic in nature such as grass clippings, tree branches, and Leaves, most of which is composted.

So What Efforts Are Made To Reduce Landfill Waste?

New Hanover County and Wilmington have implemented several programs to reduce the amount of waste sent to the landfill:

1.     Recycling Programs: The county offers curbside recycling to residents inside of city limits and has convenience centers to dispose of items such as electronics and hazardous waste.

2.     Composting efforts: Yard waste is processed into mulch and potting soil which is then available to residents and businesses.

3.     Waste to Energy Facility: The county includes a waste to energy incinerator in their sustainability efforts that converts a segment of the waste into electricity.

Why Reducing Landfill Waste Matters

Wilmington’s landfill has something in common with all landfills, a finite amount of space. Assuming waste generation quantities remain consistent, the New Hanover County Landfill has enough space to last until 2040. By reducing waste, we can extend the landfill’s lifespan and reduce negative environmental impacts, such as:

  • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Decomposing waste in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

  • Soil and Water Contamination: Proper waste management reduces the risk of harmful runoff seeping into the surrounding environment.

  • Energy Savings: Recycling and composting save energy compared to producing new materials.

Let's Take a Look at What You Can Do to Help

Businesses and residents in Wilmington can play a drastic role in reducing landfill waste by:

  • Recycling Properly: Ensure items are clean and sorted according to local guidelines. If you are not sure, many bins are labeled with acceptable materials.

  • Reducing Single-Use Plastics: Choose reusable bags, bottles, and containers whenever possible.

  • Composting: Turn food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for gardens. This will save you money at home as well.

  • Donating Unwanted Items: Many items, like clothing and furniture, can be donated instead of thrown away. This supports the community and helps reduce waste. A Win Win.

A Cleaner Future for Wilmington

If we all make a small effort, Wilmington residents and businesses can help reduce the waste entering the landfill, conserve resources, and protect the environment for future generations. Small changes in daily habits can have a large impact over time, ensuring that the community remains a beautiful and sustainable place to live. Together we can keep our grasses green and our waters Blue!

Reid Dressler