There are several methods of waste disposal, each with its own environmental implications:
Landfills Landfills are one of the most common methods of waste disposal. However, they can lead to soil and water contamination and the release of greenhouse gases.
Incineration Incineration involves burning waste at high temperatures. While it reduces the volume of waste, it can emit toxic pollutants into the air.
Recycling Recycling involves converting waste into reusable materials. It helps in reducing the consumption of fresh raw materials, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing pollution.
Composting Composting is the process of decomposing organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. It is an eco-friendly way to manage biodegradable waste and reduce landfill pressure.
Waste-to-Energy (WtE) WtE technologies convert non-recyclable waste into usable forms of energy like electricity and heat. Although it reduces waste volume, it can still emit pollutants depending on the technology used.