Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS): a fast and accurate way for monitoring landfills

Abstract

Sanitary landfills are one of the main alternatives for solid waste disposal in Brazil. However, many of them have turned into open dumps due to operational inefficiencies, highlighting the need for effective monitoring. This study evaluated the applicability of orthomosaic and digital surface model obtained via remotely piloted aircraft system for the environmental monitoring of landfills. The study area was the landfill of Cuiabá, Brazil. The aerial survey followed photogrammetric procedures, utilizing control points collected with geodetic GPS to ensure altitude correction. The images captured by the remotely piloted aircraft system were processed using photogrammetry software to produce a high-resolution orthomosaic and digital surface model, which served as a basis for analyzing the structural and operational conditions of the landfill. The analysis revealed critical issues such as leachate leaks, abandonment of leachate treatment ponds, improper exposure of waste, and evidence of solid waste burning. These conditions pose significant environmental risks, such as soil and groundwater contamination, as well as public health impacts. The study concludes that remotely piloted aircraft systems are an efficient tool for continuous landfill monitoring, providing accurate data to identify operational failures and improve environmental management.