It’s difficult to estimate the quantity of leaves that go into landfills and that varies by season and location.
Burning them releases several harmful substances into the air. They include carbon monoxide, dioxins, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful particles and gases. The smoke from burning yard waste can be just as harmful as cigarette smoke.
Then what is the best approach to adopt to manage the waste leaves?
Simply it is composting leaves.
Greens such as green grass, green leaves, and garden cuttings, are organic wastes high in nitrogen. Browns such as autumn leaves, wood chips, or sawdust are organic wastes high in carbon.
Leaves are rich in soil trace elements, and when Composted they make a valuable soil amendment.