Before new daily cover materials can be used, landfill operators must provide documentation and testing to demonstrate that they meet environmental and performance standards. This typically includes laboratory tests showing that the material can control odors, prevent litter, and limit access by pests.
Physical properties such as durability, thickness, and resistance to wind or rain may also be evaluated. Operators are often required to submit a detailed plan describing how the material will be applied, removed if reusable, and maintained. Field trials may be conducted to confirm that the cover performs effectively under real landfill conditions. Regulatory agencies review this information to make sure that the material provides protection equivalent to traditional soil covers and does not introduce new environmental hazards
