Impact of Leachates from the Chupaca Landfill on Agricultural Soil Quality

This study assesses the impact of leachates from Chupaca’s municipal landfill on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of nearby agricultural soils. Given their high concentration of contaminants, these leachates pose a critical risk to soil fertility and agricultural productivity. A quasi-experimental design was employed, comparing soil samples from contaminated and non-contaminated areas. Key parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content, and soil fauna were analyzed. The findings reveal a significant decrease in pH, indicating increased soil acidification, along with a reduction in essential nutrients such as potassium and magnesium. Conversely, elevated levels of phosphorus and calcium were observed, potentially affecting plant development. From a biological perspective, the total absence of earthworms in contaminated soils highlights severe ecological degradation. Predictive modeling using COMSOL Multiphysics indicates that, over the next 20 years, contaminants may extend up to 300 meters from the source, further compromising agricultural areas. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced waste management policies and soil remediation strategies to mitigate environmental, economic, and agricultural risks.