The managing of solid waste is one of the most challenging tasks for governments worldwide. Landfills are an essential part of any integrated solid waste management (ISWM) system. 

This document is intended to provide local authorities with the basic knowledge and understanding of what is required to close informal dumpsites within their jurisdictions and minimize the environmental damage associated with these sites. This guideline does not apply to controlled dumps, or sanitary landfills.

This document was created under the Waste Management Technologies in Regions (WMTR) program that is funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development through a four-year cooperative agreement under the CityLinks™ Leader with Associates program.