Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are synthetic fluorinated compounds that persist in the environment and have been linked to adverse health effects. Recent European regulations classify PFOS, PFOA and PFHxS as persistent organic pollutants and limit their presence in products and wastes, while Piedmont’s regional law sets low discharge limits for PFAS in surface waters. Landfills have been identified as major secondary reservoirs of PFAS because disposed consumer products and industrial wastes release these chemicals into leachate. This thesis investigates PFAS contamination at the GAIA non‑hazardous waste landfill (Cerro Tanaro, Italy) and evaluates granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption for PFAS removal from leachate with high total organic carbon (TOC).