What if I told you that the decaying mound of waste you’ve passed by for years could be one of the most untapped revenue streams in your industry?

For waste management company owners, the thousands of closed landfills across the U.S. represent more than just buried trash—they’re buried treasure.

Now, I’m not talking about digging up ancient relics or unearthed cash. I’m talking about methane—a powerful, energy-rich gas quietly seeping out of these old sites. And here’s the kicker: that gas, when captured and transformed, can power homes, fuel vehicles, or even generate pure, unadulterated cash flow for your business.

I’m Sam Barrili, the Waste Management Alchemist, and today, I’m about to reveal how savvy operators like you can transform old landfills into lucrative profit centers.

[Download the eBook “Thriving With Waste”]

The Sleeping Giant Beneath Your Feet

Closed landfills are everywhere. With over 10,000 such sites across the U.S., many of them sit idle, unmanaged, and leaking potential wealth into thin air. These are not just remnants of the past; they’re producing methane gas—a byproduct of organic material breaking down under the surface. Methane is a clean-burning, versatile energy source that’s in demand across industries.

Here’s the reality: Every year, millions of dollars’ worth of methane escapes into the atmosphere. It doesn’t have to. You could be the one to harness it, package it, and sell it to eager buyers in the energy market.

The EPA has already laid the groundwork. With programs and incentives for landfill gas-to-energy (LFGTE) projects, you can access funding, tax breaks, and guidance to turn your local dump into a revenue machine. Yet, only a fraction of the available sites are being utilized. That’s your opening.

[Download the eBook “Thriving With Waste”]

The Playbook: Turning Trash into Cash

So, how do you tap into this overlooked opportunity? Here’s the roadmap:

1. Stake Your Claim

First, identify a closed landfill with gas production potential. You’re looking for a site with sufficient organic material and a history of waste decomposition. Many municipalities are eager to collaborate with private waste management companies to repurpose these sites—often at favorable terms.

Reach out to local governments, search public records, or partner with landfill owners who lack the resources to monetize their property. Once you’ve secured access, it’s time to unlock its potential.

2. Assess the Goldmine

Next, you’ll need a feasibility study. This isn’t guesswork; you need real data. Use tools like the EPA’s Landfill Gas Emissions Model (LandGEM) to estimate the amount of methane being produced. Then, calculate the cost of installing gas collection and conversion systems against the revenue you’ll generate from selling energy or natural gas.

Here’s an example: A medium-sized landfill producing 500,000 MMBtu of methane annually could generate $5 million a year if sold as renewable natural gas (RNG). Add to that carbon credits and potential tax incentives, and you’re sitting on a high-margin business.

3. Build the Infrastructure

To capture methane, you’ll install a network of wells and pipes to collect the gas as it rises to the surface. From there, the gas needs to be processed to remove impurities. Depending on your strategy, you can:

• Sell Electricity: Install a cogeneration plant to convert methane into power and sell it to the grid.

• Produce RNG: Purify the gas into pipeline-quality natural gas for industrial buyers, vehicle fleets, or residential use.

Each option has its benefits, but RNG tends to offer higher revenue potential, especially when combined with carbon credits.

4. Monetize and Scale

Once your system is operational, you’re ready to sell. Utilities, manufacturers, and municipalities are eager for new energy sources, and RNG is in high demand. Partner with energy brokers or directly negotiate contracts to maximize your returns.

With cash flow established, reinvest in additional sites or expand your capacity. Remember, old landfills are everywhere—and they all hold untapped potential.

[Download the eBook “Thriving With Waste”]

Why Now Is the Time to Act

The waste management industry is changing rapidly. As landfills close and waste streams diversify, the old models of revenue are being challenged. But while some see obstacles, others see opportunity.

The U.S. government and private sector are pouring billions into energy transition projects. Federal incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offer tax breaks and grants for renewable energy initiatives. If you’ve ever thought about diversifying your income streams, this is your moment.

The numbers don’t lie. Projects like these can reach a break-even point in as little as two years. After that, it’s pure profit. With minimal operational costs and guaranteed demand, you’re looking at a steady, reliable revenue stream for years to come.

[Download the eBook “Thriving With Waste”]

The Competitive Edge

What separates those who succeed from those who hesitate? Vision. The best waste management operators are not just hauling trash—they’re rethinking what’s possible. By claiming a stake in methane capture, you’re not just adapting to the future; you’re leading it.

Imagine presenting this to your clients or partners:

• A project that reduces waste while generating consistent income.

• A bold initiative that positions your company as a leader in the industry.

• A proven, scalable model that turns overlooked assets into high-value resources.

This is about more than just business; it’s about mastering the art of transformation—turning what others ignore into what you can’t ignore.

[Download the eBook “Thriving With Waste”]

Ready to Act?

If you’ve read this far, you’re not just curious; you’re serious. And serious operators take action. Whether you’re new to methane capture or looking to expand your portfolio, the time to start is now.

Imagine the headlines: "Local Waste Company Turns Old Landfill into $10 Million Energy Hub." That could be you.

So, what’s your next move? 

Book a consultation with me, Sam Barrili, the Waste Management Alchemist. Together, we’ll craft a strategy tailored to your business. Whether you’re scouting your first landfill or scaling a growing operation, I’ll show you how to turn waste into wealth.

The treasure is there. The question is, are you ready to claim it?

To Your Success

Sam Barrili
The Waste Management Alchemist