After completing and discussing the quiz, students read and discuss a list of waste reduction habits. Background Information People today often discard items that years ago would have been repaired or saved for other uses. How to manage waste in an environmentally sound manner is a complex and sometimes controversial issue. There is no single, simple solution to the solid waste problem. The use of a variety of waste management practices is recommended to reduce waste management problems most effectively and safely.
Source reduction means reducing the amount and the toxicity of the waste that is produced.
Individuals and families can participate in source reduction by buying more products that are durable and nondisposable , and more products that have fewer toxic components and less packaging. Reusing items that we usually throw out is a good way to reduce the waste disposal problem. Manufacturers have a big role to play in source reduction. They should be encouraged to produce products that have less packaging and fewer toxic components. Recycling is the second level of waste management.