Abstract:
Solid waste management in developing cities is a threat to water and food security. The final
disposal option for solid wastes is usually landfill sites. Possible contaminants and their impact
on surface and groundwater, and soil quality, at the northern solid waste landfill in Bloemfontein
city, South Africa, was investigated. Soil samples were analysed for basic cations and heavy
metals. A one-point surface leachate, groundwater, and surface water samples were analysed for
physicochemical and microbiological parameters. Hydrochemical speciation models were developed
using these parameters to determine the influence of the leachate emanating from the landfill on
the quality of the water samples. Findings from the study showed that the low metal content in
the soil and water samples posed no immediate threat to food and water security. However, most
of the other parameters were above the permissible limit of South African National Standard 241
(SANS241) and World Health Organisation (WHO) for drinking water, and the Department of Water
A airsand Forestry (DWAF) specification for irrigation, an indication that the groundwater was unfit
for drinking, domestic and irrigation purposes. Metal concentrations in the soil also increased with
distance downslope of the landfill along drainage lines. The implementation of a circular economy in
Bloemfontein will translate to less pollution and enhance sustainable development.
