Solid waste disposal is a burning problem that continues to grow with population growth and the development of industries. Placing waste in water or on land has become commonplace for many in most places.
Semi-solid or solid materials made by humans or animals are biodegradable in nature. Therefore, they can be broken down in certain ways. However, much solid E-waste, such as paper, bottles, plastic containers, cans, and even used cars and electronics, is not biodegradable, meaning they cannot be broken down or dissolved by natural means. So when they accumulate in the landfill area, they can pose major health risks to humans. You cannot burn this waste to destroy it, as it releases harmful and toxic gases. If you bury this waste in the ground, the organisms that live there wouldn’t be able to live. In addition to possible damage to terrestrial organisms, it also affects the shape of the soil, reducing the possibilities for further use.
Solid waste disposal and management methods:
Open incineration of solid waste:
It is not the perfect method in the current scenario, as the elements release harmful and toxic gases that can pose a huge threat to health.
Sanitary landfills for solid waste:
Sanitary landfill is the least expensive satisfactory way to dispose of waste that is sold, but only if suitable land is available within an economic distance of the source of the waste. A significant percentage of the total cost of this method goes to collection and transportation.
Combustion method:
The incineration method is ideal for combustible waste. This method can be considered in busy cities where landfills are not available. High operation and construction accounts for 75% of the total cost of this solid waste management.
Composting Process:
Like sanitary landfill, the composting process is very popular in developing countries. It is a natural biological process in which decomposed organic material is separated and composted under controlled aerobic conditions. Yields can be used as a basis for fertilizers.
There are two methods used in this process and these are a) open window composting and b) mechanical composting.
Recovery procedure:
Materials such as paper, glass, metal, rags, some plastics, etc. can be recovered, recycled and reused.
Organic fermentation/digestion:
Biodegradable waste is converted into compost and can be recycled where possible. Hazardous waste can be disposed of using appropriate methods.
Recycling:
The practice of recycling solid waste is an old practice. It is a process in which waste is converted into new materials and objects. It is an alternative to conventional waste processing that can prevent the greenhouse effect caused by emissions. In addition, the process can avoid the waste of potentially useful materials and reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials. Recyclables, on the other hand, are separated by a number of methods, such as shredding, air classification, sieving, magnetic metal separation and washing.
