But if the law was federal, manufacturers in one state would not have an advantage over another. But it is important to remember that it would be a short-term advantage since actions that reduce waste over the long term usually increase profits. Developing World Garbage disposal in poor countries is also becoming an issue as urban populations increase. Most of the world s largest cities are found in poor countries. Funds for waste disposal are scarce, and open dumps are still used.
Scavengers pick through dumps and trash on streets for valuable items.
In Guatemala, poor scavengers wait for delivery of garbage to search for items of value, as well as food. While scavengers remove some materials from the waste stream, the rapid growth of cities in developing countries coupled with lack of infrastructure and services means that garbage accumulates in large quantities, especially in poor neighborhoods. This detracts from livability and increases health hazards. In Dar es Salaam, for example, only about 5 percent of solid waste in collected by the municipality. The growth rate has exceeded the local authority s capacity to provide adequate services and prevent environmental degradation.