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Most landfill-neighbor discussions focus on odors and PM2.5 — and rightfully so. But there's a heavier, invisible gas that deserves equal attention: radon. While radon isn't unique to landfill sites, the soil disturbance and decomposition processes near landfills can create localized radon concerns that compound the standard risks.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It's colorless, odorless, and tasteless — entirely undetectable without a monitor. Outdoors, it disperses harmlessly. Indoors, it can accumulate to levels that significantly increase lung cancer risk.
The EPA estimates radon causes roughly 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the US — second only to smoking. The EPA action level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), though many experts recommend mitigation at 2+ pCi/L.
Landfill Connection
Soil disturbance during landfill construction and operation can increase radon mobility. Additionally, decomposing organic matter generates gases that create pressure differentials favoring radon migration into nearby structures.
Testing for Radon
Testing is the only way to know your radon levels. The Airthings View Plus includes continuous radon monitoring alongside its other sensors — making it the highest-value option for landfill neighbors who need comprehensive air quality data.
Airthings View Plus (7-Sensor)
Radon, PM2.5, CO₂, TVOCs, humidity, temperature, pressure. Wi-Fi + app. The most comprehensive consumer monitor available.
If you want a standalone radon test, short-term charcoal test kits (available at hardware stores for ~$15–$25) provide a 48–96 hour snapshot. Long-term alpha track tests (90+ days) provide a better average. For ongoing monitoring, a continuous monitor like the Airthings View Plus gives you trend data and alerts you to seasonal changes.
Interpreting Your Results
- Below 2 pCi/L: Low risk. Retest every 2 years.
- 2–4 pCi/L: Moderate. Consider mitigation. Many experts recommend acting at this level, especially with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
- 4+ pCi/L: EPA action level. Mitigate — contact a certified radon contractor.
- 8+ pCi/L: High priority. Mitigate promptly.
Radon Mitigation
Sub-slab depressurization is the standard and most effective mitigation approach. A contractor installs a pipe through the slab floor into the soil beneath, connected to a fan that draws radon-containing soil gases out from under the house and vents them above the roofline before they can enter. The system typically reduces radon by 80–99%, costs $800–$2,500 installed, and runs continuously for low operating cost.
DIY mitigation is possible in some cases but a certified radon contractor ensures the system is properly designed for your foundation type and achieves verified results. Post-mitigation testing confirms effectiveness.
Integration With Your Air Quality Strategy
Importantly, HEPA purifiers do not address radon — radon is a gas, not a particle, and carbon filters don't effectively capture it either. Radon requires its own dedicated mitigation. However, the Airthings View Plus Amazon gives you one dashboard for radon, PM2.5, CO₂, and VOCs — making it the single most efficient monitoring investment for landfill neighbors.