SOLID WASTE & TYPES

What is solid waste ?

Solid waste refers to the range of materials that are discarded by households, businesses, and institutions. It includes items that are no longer useful or wanted, such as food scraps, packaging materials, appliances, electronics, furniture, and textiles. Solid waste management is the process of collecting, transporting, processing, and disposing of these materials in a way that is safe and environmentally responsible. This can involve recycling, composting, incineration, or disposal in a landfill. Proper solid waste management is important for public health, environmental protection, and resource conservation.

Types of solid waste 

There are several categories of solid waste, including:

Municipal solid waste (MSW):

This is the most common type of solid waste and includes everyday items like paper, cardboard, food scraps, yard waste, and household goods.

Industrial waste:

This includes materials generated by manufacturing processes, such as chemicals, metals, and hazardous materials.

Construction and demolition (C&D) waste:

This includes materials generated during the construction, renovation, and demolition of buildings and infrastructure, such as concrete, wood, and drywall.

Electronic waste (e-waste):

This includes electronic devices that are no longer wanted or needed, such as computers, phones, and televisions.

Medical waste:

This includes materials that are generated by healthcare facilities, such as sharps, pathological waste, and infectious waste.

Agricultural waste:

This includes materials generated by the farming and livestock industry, such as animal manure, crop residues, and bedding.

Hazardous waste:

This includes materials that are potentially dangerous or toxic, such as batteries, pesticides, and oil.

Proper management of each of these categories of solid waste is important for protecting public health and the environment.