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Chile Landfill: World's Top Methane Source
4 May
Summary
- A landfill near Santiago is the world's largest source of methane emissions.
- It emits 102,667 metric tons of methane annually, equivalent to millions of cars.
- Captured methane is converted to clean energy for a nearby power station.

The Lomas Los Colorados landfill, situated near Santiago, Chile, is identified as the world's most significant human-made source of methane emissions. This massive site releases an estimated 102,667 metric tons of methane annually, a greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. This annual emission is equivalent to the exhaust from nearly 2 million cars.
Despite its significant environmental impact, the landfill has also been a source of clean energy since 2007. Through a program managed by KDM Empresas, captured methane is converted into biogas, fueling a nearby power station. This initiative has blocked the emission of over 700 million cubic meters of methane and 11 million tons of carbon dioxide, while generating up to 100,000 MWh of energy.