N2O emissions at solid waste disposal sites in Osaka City.

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a trace gas contributing to stratospheric ozone depletion and global warming. Although a large quantity of information exists about N2O emissions from various ecosystems, this study was initiated to demonstrate the features of N2O emissions from sea-based waste disposal sites in Osaka City in relation to CH4 emissions. Average N2O emissions at an active landfill (S-Site) were several times higher than those at a closed landfill (N-Site). Average CH4 emissions were also much greater at the S-Site. Regarding the nature of N2O emissions, remarkable emissions often were observed with aerobic waste layers at the N-Site, suggesting almost inversely related N2O emissions with CH4 production at the N-Site. However, at the S-Site a few exceptionally high N2O emissions were noted in cases of high CH4 emissions.