To reduce waste volume, local governments or private operators can implement a controlled burning process called combustion or incineration. In addition to minimizing volume, combustors, when properly equipped, can convert water into steam to fuel heating systems or generate electricity. Benefits of Combustion Burning MSW can generate energy while reducing the amount of waste by up to 90 percent in volume and 75 percent in weight. A variety of pollution control technologies reduce the toxic materials emitted in combustion smoke. Burning waste at extremely high temperatures also destroys harmful chemical compounds and disease-causing bacteria.
Regular testing ensures that residual ash is nonhazardous before being landfilled.
Household Hazardous Waste Common household items such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides contain hazardous components. Leftover portions of these products are called household hazardous waste. These products, if mishandled, can be dangerous to your health and the environment.