When disposed of in landfill, food waste releases methane, a relatively damaging greenhouse gas, and leachate, a toxin capable of considerable groundwater pollution.

Prohibitions on well drilling and groundwater pollution have been passed, but there are no clear mechanisms for their enforcement.

Disadvantages of this process are large electrical power consumption, extensive water use, and the risk of groundwater pollution.

In areas with high population density, groundwater pollution levels often exceed acceptable limits.

Concerns about deforestation at the new site, as well as potential for groundwater pollution have also been expressed.