Disposal security thanks to long-term landfill planning
As part of the efforts towards a circular economy, the amount of waste disposed of in landfills in the canton of Zurich has been significantly reduced. For the waste that cannot be recycled, careful planning and selection of new landfill sites ensures long-term disposal security.
The sustainable organisation of waste management and the careful use of resources are playing an increasingly important role in today’s society. In the canton of Zurich, this is clearly demonstrated by targeted efforts to promote the circular economy, which has led to a significant reduction in the amount of waste that ends up in landfill sites. Nevertheless, there is waste that cannot be integrated into the material cycle and therefore requires safe disposal.
The canton’s Building Department has identified 23 new, suitable sites for landfills in an extensive and broadly supported process. These sites serve as the basis for a partial revision of the cantonal structure plan and make a significant contribution to securing waste disposal in the long term. The aim is to precisely determine future landfill volume requirements and at the same time select sites in such a way that transport routes for disposal are optimised and environmental impact is minimised.
Particular attention is being paid to reducing waste from construction activities, which accounts for the largest proportion of landfill volumes. Significant volume reductions can be achieved through measures such as sorting construction waste and cleaning contaminated excavated material. From 2030, a significant reduction in the annual landfill volume is expected compared to today. Over a period of 40 years, it is estimated that a total of around 17 landfill sites will be required, strategically distributed across the canton to further improve the efficiency and sustainability of waste disposal.
This long-term planning and commitment to a sustainable circular economy show how responsible behaviour and innovative solutions can ensure safe and environmentally friendly waste disposal.