Sustainable Waste Management

 

All goods and products contain raw materials and energy. If they are discarded we are effectively throwing away valuable natural resources. Waste disposal can also have adverse impacts on local air pollution and greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions. Sustainable waste management is therefore vital for:

 

• Conserving valuable natural resources.
• Preventing the unnecessary emission of GHGs
• Protecting public health and natural ecosystems.
• Sustainable waste management is based on the following waste hierarchy.
• The measures at the top of the hierarchy are always preferable and should be considered first.

 

Waste disposal should be seen as a last resort. Not only does waste disposal mean that valuable resources and energy are being thrown away, but also biodegradable waste in landfill can emit methane – a GHG up to 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide. What's more, landfill space is becoming restricted. Lastly, landfill sites are an eyesore and a source of local pollution.