Solid Waste Management and Disposal

Waste Management Intro http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CfAkmelRfg

Solid Waste Objects or particles that accumulate on the site where they are produced. Categorized by who/what produces them.

Types of Solid Waste Mining Waste Waste left on surface From processing and drainage

Types of Solid Waste Agricultural Waste From raising animals and from crop + tree harvesting. 90% is used as fertilizer or other forms of soil enhancement.

Types of Solid Waste Industrial Solid Waste Demolition waste Sludge Combustion ash

Types of Solid Waste Municipal Solid Waste Discarded by people. Broken Not wanted Disposable or temporary-use items 230 million tons annually.

Municipal Solid Waste In modern society, many products are discarded when they are broken or worn out, while others only have a temporary use.

Waste Generation and Lifestyle Nation w/high standard of living = more municipal solid waster per person Cities = most trouble dealing with waste Traditional methods (burning, dumping) need to change.

Waste Generation and Lifestyle

Methods of Waste Disposal Landfills Depression in clay layer lined with impermeable membrane. Fresh garbage covered with layer of soil to prevent it from blowing around and to discourage animal scavengers. Cheap and convenient, traditional

Landfills

Landfills  Status Number of new and active are declining. Full or not up to safety regulations. New landfills often resisted due to public concerns over groundwater contamination, odors, and truck traffic.

Reducing the Number of Landfills

Methods of Waste Disposal Incineration Burning garbage Expensive process About 15% of waste management in US Produces electricity Risks = air quality problems and toxicity + disposal of ash

Methods of Waste Disposal Mulch and Compost Organic material chopped/shredded Natural decomposition Fertilizers and topsoil

Diverting Waste Through Composting

Reducing Waste Sources Design Changes Reducing size, shape, and weight of plastic containers. Manufacturing Processes Reduce waste, increase efficiency. Purchasing Decisions Choose reduced packaging and plan quantities accordingly. Reusing Items Delay or prevent entry of items into waste collection stream.

Recycling Diverts ~30% of waste in US Benefits Resource conservation Pollution reduction Energy savings Job creation Less need for landfills + incinerators

Recycling Programs Container Laws Mandatory Recycling Laws Deposit on beverage containers. Mandatory Recycling Laws Provide incentive to recycle. Curbside Recycling 1990 - 1,000 U.S. cities 2000 - 9,000 US cities

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-XpUacV-TE