Waste Management refers to the process of collecting, transporting, treating, recycling, and disposing of waste materials in an environmentally friendly manner. The purpose of waste management is to reduce the adverse effects of waste materials on human health and the environment.
Waste Management involves managing various types of waste such as municipal solid waste (MSW), industrial waste, hazardous waste, and construction debris. The process includes collection, transportation, processing, recycling or disposal of waste materials.
Without proper waste management techniques, waste materials can take up valuable land space and pollute the environment. Effective waste management helps reduce our carbon footprint and promotes a sustainable environment for future generations.
Waste is managed through various techniques such as landfilling, recycling, incineration, composting and hazardous waste disposal. Landfilling is the most commonly used method to dispose of solid wastes. Hazardous wastes are typically treated separately due to their potential environmental impacts.
Landfilling is a common method used for disposing of solid wastes. It involves burying solid wastes in designated areas known as landfill sites. Landfills must be appropriately designed with environmental safeguards to prevent groundwater contamination or air pollution.
Hazardous wastes require special handling and disposal methods due to their toxic nature. Hazardous wastes include chemicals, pesticides, medical wastes and radioactive materials. Proper hazardous waste disposal involves treating the materials so that they do not pose a risk to human health or the environment.
Waste reduction refers to strategies that aim to reduce the amount of waste generated in households or industries. Strategies such as source reduction, reuse and recycling help prevent wasteful consumption while encouraging a circular economy.
