Abstract

Solid waste production is inevitable and its unsanitary disposal in the environment is of public and environmental health concern. Leachate, generated due to the infiltration of water/precipitation through the waste mass and the wastes biodegradation, is amixture of dissolved organic matter, inorganic macro-components, heavy metals, xenobiotic organic compounds and microorganisms. Several studies have reported the acute toxicity of leachate using different end points, while evidences are accumulating on their potentials to induce genetic damage. In this wise, differentshort-term in vivo and in vitro bioassays are being utilized in the evaluations of genotoxicity and mutagenicity of leachates; and the possible mechanisms of genetic damage. This paper reviews reports on leachate-induced genetic damage. There is need for a shift from waste disposal to sustainable waste management. Awareness on possible health impacts or consequences of exposure to solid waste should also be created through health education.

Key words: Solid waste leachate, genotoxicity, mutagenicity, environmental pollution.