Valongo landfill operator says inspection supports licence renewal despite closure threat

The company running the Sobrado landfill in Valongo says an official inspection found it broadly compliant with its environmental permit, with only minor fixes needed before the licence is renewed on 1 December. It argues the Government's decision cannot differ from the inspection report. The listed faults include cleaning rainwater channels, reconfiguring temporary earth barriers that keep leachate apart from rainwater, and repairing lintels at the hydrocarbon separator. The Portuguese Environment Agency also asked for plans to curb leachate and odours. Residents and the municipality have contested the site since 2019. The environment minister has not confirmed closure, making it depend on corrections within 60 working days.