The potential for landfill leachate treatment using willows in the UK-A critical review

Landfill leachate is an increasing problem for UK landfill operators, regulators and the environment. Economically and environmentally sustainable solutions are in growing demand. Energy crops such as willows may offer a two-fold solution, fulfilling both of these criteria. This paper sets out the current status of the use of such treatment systems in the UK, their potential environmental and economic benefits and possible mechanisms for their effectiveness.