
Trees as Filters
Nature is providing a vegetative solution to landfill management in South Barrington, Illinois, and Arnold, Missouri. In both locations, Republic Services is using trees as part of their complex microbiological processes to naturally filter water that gets pumped from an area landfill.
This process, called phytoremediation, is a green technology that harnesses the ability of specific trees and plants to naturally filter pollutants. Landfill surfaces are covered, or capped, with trees and shrubs identified to be particularly good for this purpose. In addition to filtering water, the plants provide a natural habitat for wildlife. This project was nationally recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies with the National Honor Award for Engineering Excellence.