Apart from Florida, which doesn't keep comparable data, Georgia landfills are accepting more out-of-state solid waste than any of its neighbors, and most of that is coal ash.

A private landfill in Banks County has received at least 6.7 million tons of coal ash, primarily from North Carolina.

The influx has raised questions about the safe handling of coal ash, a by-product of coal-fired electricity that is known to be harmful to plants, animals and humans.

About the Author

Featured

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff speaks during a town hall at the Cobb County Civic Center on April 25 in Atlanta. Ossoff said Wednesday he is investigating corporate landlords and out-of-state companies buying up single-family homes in bulk. (Jason Allen for the AJC)

Credit: Jason Allen/AJC