What does an effective landfill gas collection system prevent?

An effective landfill gas collection system primarily prevents air pollution. Landfill gas is produced as organic waste decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen). This gas typically contains harmful components, such as methane and volatile organic compounds, which can have detrimental effects on air quality if released unchecked into the atmosphere. By capturing and utilizing or safely flaring this gas, the collection system mitigates the risk of emitting these pollutants into the environment, thereby helping to maintain cleaner air and minimizing the potential for negative health impacts associated with exposure to air pollution.

In relation to the other options: while it is true that managing landfill gas could help reduce odors and minimize public complaints, as well as potentially reduce the risk of fires, the primary function and significance of the gas collection system in terms of environmental protection is most closely associated with controlling air pollution. Waste overflow is not directly addressed by gas collection systems, as it pertains more to the physical management of waste materials rather than the gaseous emissions that result from the decomposition of those materials.