The use of alternative daily cover materials is approved by environmental regulatory agencies that oversee landfill operations. In the United States, this responsibility typically falls to state-level environmental protection departments or waste management boards operating under the general guidance of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Before a material can be used, landfill operators must submit documentation showing that it meets performance standards for controlling odors, litter, pests, and fires as effectively as a traditional soil cover.
The approval process often involves laboratory testing, pilot studies, and a review of the material’s physical and chemical properties to ensure it will not cause pollution or safety issues. Once a material is approved, it is added to the list of acceptable covers for use in that state or region. Regulators may also require periodic monitoring and reporting to confirm the material continues to perform as intended.
