It was a rare chance indeed to visit Singapore's one and only landfill on Pulau Semakau. Since landfilling is part of my module's syllabus, it only makes sense that I made a trip there to actually see what is going on.
Surprisingly, the place is very well kept (typically Singaporean) and there is hardly any smell. Landscaping was wonderful, making the whole island feel like a holiday resort. The staff there seemed relaxed - who wouldn't be if you are working on a small island without your bosses around?
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| On the charted boat. Semakau transfer station can be seen in the distance | On the island. Semakau landfill is surrounded by a bund with a road on top | After a cell has been filled, it is covered with a layer of soil for vegetation to grow |
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| This cell is still filled with water which has to be drained before solid waste is disposed in it. | Besides providing some greenery on the island, mangroves are used as an indicator of whether the leaching of toxic substances is taking place. | End of the bund. Across this narrow strait is the other end of the bund. |
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| Looking more like a resort than a landfill | Group photo | Leaving Semakau. Nearby are Bukom refineries giving off air pollution. |