Waste accumulation has never been a major problem in the past, but due to globalization and industrialization, there is a need for a more efficient waste disposal method. Below are some of the methods used today.
In this process, waste that cannot be reused or recycled is separated and spread as a thin layer in low-lying areas of a city. A layer of soil is added after each layer of trash. However, once this process is complete, the area will be declared unsuitable for building construction for the next 20 years. Instead, it can only be used as a playground or park.
Incineration is the process of controlled combustion of garbage to reduce it to incombustible matter such as ash and waste gas. The exhaust gases from this process may be toxic, hence it is treated before being released into the environment. This process reduces the volume of waste by 90 per cent and is considered as one of the most hygienic methods of waste disposal. In some cases, the heat generated is used to produce electricity. However, some consider this process, not quite environmentally friendly due to the generation of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
Waste materials such as cans and plastic bottles are compacted into blocks and sent for recycling. This process prevents the oxidation of metals and reduces the need for air space, making it easier to transport and position.
Biodegradable waste, such as food items, animal waste or organic industrial waste from food packaging industries are sent to bio-degradation plants. In bio-degradation plants, they are converted to biogas by degradation with the help of bacteria, fungi, or other microbes. Here, the organic matter serves as food for the micro-organisms. The degradation can happen aerobically (with oxygen) or anaerobically (without oxygen). Biogas is generated as a result of this process, which is used as fuel, and the residue is used as manure.
All organic materials decompose over time. leftovers, garden waste, etc., offset one of the most important organic waste we throw away every day. The composting process begins when this organic waste is buried under layers of soil and then decomposes under the action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
This produces nutrient-rich manure. In addition, this process ensures that nutrients are replenished in the soil. In addition to enriching the soil, composting also increases its water storage capacity. In agriculture, it is the best alternative to chemical fertilizers.
Vermicomposting is the process by which earthworms are used to break down organic matter into nutrient-rich manure. The worms consume and digest organic matter. The digestive products excreted by earthworms make the soil rich in nutrients, which encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi. It is also much more effective than traditional composting.