What regulatory standard is involved in landfill closure?

The correct answer involves the requirement for a Landfill Closure Plan to be approved by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). This regulatory standard is crucial because it ensures that there is a structured and compliant method for closing a landfill.

When a landfill reaches the end of its operational life, it must be closed in a manner that minimizes potential environmental impacts. This plan outlines the procedures, methods, and practices that the landfill operator will implement during the closure process, aiming to protect public health and the environment. Approval by TDEC ensures that these plans meet state regulatory standards and are consistent with environmental protection goals.

Other options may involve different aspects of environmental regulation or management but are not directly focused on the specific procedures and requirements for closing a landfill. For instance, while a Hazardous Waste Management Plan is important, it does not specifically address the closure of a landfill. Similarly, an Environmental Impact Statement is related to assessing the potential environmental effects of proposed projects but is not the same as a landfill closure plan. Certification of a landfill's initial permit pertains to the approval of its opening and operation, rather than the regulations concerning its closure.