Green waste consists of organic matter like food scraps, leaves, and grass clippings. It is naturally decomposed by microorganisms in a controlled composting environment to form nutrient-rich soil.
It’s better for the earth than sending it to a landfill where it breaks down anaerobically and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Time your mowing with your fortnightly Rubbish Collection Perth schedule to make it easier.
Biodegradable
When a product is labeled as biodegradable, it means that it will break down into natural elements when disposed of in specific conditions. This can take an undetermined amount of time, and it differs from compostable, which will decompose into soil in a more specific timeline. Biodegradable products often take many years to break down, and they may also leave behind microplastic waste that isn’t as harmless as the original material.
Many different things are biodegradable, including kitchen scraps, manure, sewage sludge, and dead animals and plants. However, some products that are labeled as biodegradable can be misleading, especially when they are made from synthetic materials. For example, paper straws and plates that are biodegradable might be made from recycled plastics, which is not environmentally friendly. In these cases, it is best to choose eco-friendly alternatives that are made from non-plastic materials and have no chemicals on them.
Generally, when a product is biodegradable, it will break down into water, carbon dioxide, and methane in the environment over time. The process of biodegradation is aided by bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. This is why it is important to separate organic waste from other types of waste and to use the correct containers for green waste collection.
In addition to helping the environment, composting green waste can be beneficial for the ecosystem in other ways. Properly managed compost can help to store carbon, reducing the amount of pollution caused by free circulating carbon in the air. Some facilities also use green waste to produce biogas, which is a source of energy that is both renewable and sustainable.
If you are looking for environmentally friendly ways to dispose of your waste, consider choosing items that are labeled as either biodegradable or compostable. Be sure to check the product packaging for detailed information on how to properly dispose of these items, and never mix recyclable and non-recyclable waste in the same container. Biodegradable and compostable waste should only be thrown in specialized bins so that they can break down and transform into soil that is good for the environment.
Compostable
If you’re environmentally conscious, you may have noticed the words “compostable” on a variety of products during your shopping spree. The good news is that these items are indeed compostable and can be added to a green waste collection bin. However, not all products that say “compostable” actually do decompose in the same way as organic material. Some can contaminate the compost mix. That’s why it’s important to know what constitutes a truly compostable product and what is not.
First, let’s define the term compostable. Composting is a process during which organic materials like food scraps, grass clippings, and certain kitchen wastes are broken down into nutrient-rich soil. This is a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to landfills that release toxic substances into the atmosphere. It is also beneficial for the soil as it enhances its moisture and improves its nutrient content.
What’s more, it can help reduce the amount of short-lived climate pollutants in our air. This is because when organic waste decomposes, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas. Moreover, it provides valuable nutrients that can be used to boost plant growth and reduce the occurrence of soil erosion.
To be considered compostable, an item must meet specific requirements. It must be made of organic material and contain a high proportion of carbon and nitrogen. Moreover, it must be capable of breaking down under a specified environment and time frame. Lastly, it must not leave any toxic elements or harmful residues behind in the environment upon breaking down.
The best and safest way to dispose of organic waste is to put it in a dedicated compost bin. This bin should be located in a sunny and dry spot where it will not be affected by rain or other weather conditions. It is also important to ensure that the bin is securely sealed as it will need to be kept sanitary and pest-free.
While it is possible to compost some items in your backyard, many people opt for municipal green waste collections. These services are available for residential, multifamily, and commercial properties. They allow you to divert your organic waste from landfills by placing it in a special cart. This waste is then sent to a local composting facility to be turned into nutrient-rich soil. In addition, some municipalities are implementing new programs that enable residents to dispose of food waste in curbside bins.
Hazardous
As industrial and technological advancements continue to take place around the world, more toxic waste is produced. The waste can be in various forms like liquids, solids, and gases. The waste can also have different characteristics and features like ignitability, corrosivity, or reactivity. In the country, there are a variety of hazardous waste collection services that work to safely dispose of and recycle this type of waste.
One of the main reasons why there is so much hazardous waste in the world is because of technological and industrial advances that produce these types of materials. These developments have led to many chemical products being created, and then discarded when they become obsolete or no longer useful. Some of these products include flammable chemicals, corrosive chemicals, and hazardous biological material and toxins.
The EPA defines hazardous waste as anything dangerous or capable of causing harm to human beings and the environment. The agency has also established regulations that help to balance the goals of protecting humans and the Earth while sustaining resource conservation. For example, they have developed regulations that ensure recycling is done safely and efficiently.
Hazardous waste is often disposed of in landfills or incinerators. However, this can be costly to the environment and human beings. Instead, some of the waste can be recycled into useful items, such as building materials or energy sources. This process can be performed in various ways, such as using a cement kiln or incineration treatments.
To determine if a particular waste is hazardous, the EPA uses several classification systems. These systems identify different hazards based on specific features of the waste. For instance, the DOT uses a 9-system classification method while the NFPA 400 uses a 14-system method.
Once a hazardous waste is identified, it must be transported to a facility that treats, disposes, or recycles it. These facilities must adhere to various EPA and US Department of Transportation (DoT) regulations. These rules must be followed to ensure that the waste is transported safely from the generator’s production site to the final disposal location.
Recyclable
In the wake of environmental concerns in the 1980s, recycling grew rapidly as governments, businesses, and individuals committed to reducing waste disposal. The goal of recycling is to reuse materials that would otherwise be discarded as trash. This saves natural resources and reduces waste disposal costs. However, it is important to understand that recycling is not a panacea. Governments, businesses, and individuals often choose to recycle only when the economics make sense.
Recyclables are collected either through curbside bins or in commercial collection programs. They are then sent to a recovery facility where they are sorted, cleaned, and reprocessed into materials that can be used in manufacturing. The products manufactured with recycled materials are called recyclables, and they are being used in an increasing number of everyday items.
Glass, paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal are among the most common recyclables. These are commonly used in products such as food packaging, office supplies, and glass bottles. Other materials that can be recycled include electronics, textiles, and yard waste. However, not everything recyclable is accepted in every location. Check with your local recycling program for specific details.
It is also important to remember that it is a good idea to keep your recyclables clean and dry. Putting wet or oily materials in the recycling bin can prevent them from being able to be sorted and processed properly. It is also best to place recyclables in a clear container instead of a plastic bag. This helps to ensure that the items are not contaminated and can make their way through the recycling process without being tangled or sent to the landfill.
If you are going to be recycling e-waste, it is important to find a reputable recycler. This is because a lot of e-waste ends up in poorer countries where it can be sold or repurposed for toxic chemicals. It is a good idea to look for e-Stewards certification when selecting a recycler for this material.
Avoid putting construction or demolition materials in the recycling bin. These materials will contaminate the entire load of recyclables and cause them to end up in the landfill. In addition, never put paint, pesticides, or fertilizer in the recycle bin. These can be taken to household hazardous waste collections or events. It is also not appropriate to put wire hangers or styrofoam in the recycling bin, as these belong in the trash.