Cadmium (Cd) Contamination in Soil, Leachate, and Air at Sukawinatan Landfill, Palembang, Indonesia: A Risk Assessment Perspective

The Sukawinatan Landfill in Palembang operates using an open dumping system, posing a potential risk of environmental contamination by the heavy metal cadmium (Cd). This study aims to analyze Cd contamination levels in soil, leachate, and air, and assess the potential health and environmental risks. Soil samples were randomly collected from three points at depths of 10 cm, 20 cm, and 30 cm. Leachate sampling followed the grab sampling technique in accordance with SNI 6989.59:2008, while air samples were collected from four cardinal directions using a High Volume Air Sampler (HVAS), based on the SNI 7119-4:2017 standard. Cd concentrations were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Results showed that Cd levels in soil at all locations exceeded the quality standard (0.06 mg/kg), with the highest concentration recorded at Location 3 (1.52 mg/kg at 20 cm depth). Leachate samples at several points also exceeded environmental thresholds, while Cd concentrations in air remained within safe limits. These findings indicate a potential Cd contamination risk around the landfill, posing possible health hazards, particularly to workers and nearby residents. Improved waste management and regular monitoring are essential to minimize the environmental impact of heavy metal contamination at the Sukawinatan Landfill.