The Texas Agricultural Extension Service is a multi-disciplinary public agency providing advanced applied research, planning, management information, development alternatives and educational activities in sustainable solid waste related activities. Alliances are formed with a broad base of organizations, agencies, corporations, centers and institutions to educate clienteles on solid waste management issues. Decision-makers and educators across the state of Texas are looking for alternative solid waste management practices that are environmentally sound, economically sustainable and effective.
Education plays an important role in reducing the solid waste problem.
Two examples of ongoing Extension solid waste programs are described below. Household Hazardous Waste Texas Agricultural Extension Service, in cooperation with other resource organizations, develops and promotes education and action concerning household hazardous product identification, safe use, storage, proper disposal, and the selection of safer alternatives. Extension provides training, consultation, educational materials and an information service for the public concern regarding household hazardous products and wastes. Pesticide Container Collection and Environmentally Safe Disposal Practices Extension, in cooperation with other resource organizations, promotes environmental health and social justice through the adoption of sound pest management policies and practices, These practices should reduce dependence on chemical pesticides and provide environmentally safe and economically sustainable disposal alternatives for pesticide containers. Extension educators must become effective in adapting programs to handle communities' solid waste.