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FROM TRASH TO TROUBLE: HOW POOR WASTE DISPOSAL FUELS CLIMATE CHANGE

April 23, 2025

It was a cool-breezy day, the wind brushed against my face and the drizzle of rain fell upon my skin. Disheartened however by the fact that instead of smelling the earth I could only get the revolting smell of garbage mixing with the rain. An experience that usually is cherished turned into a nightmare. This has pushed me to talk about the importance of waste management as in reality the foul smell of garbage should be the least of our worries, it causes way more potent problems.

WASTE MANAGEMENT:

We often villainize factories and industries when it comes to climate change and while their impact is undeniable, we tend to overlook how we contribute to the problem through managing waste in an improper manner. Each banana peel, plastic chips wrapper tossed without a second thought acts as a catalyst towards climate change. Organic waste in landfills releases methane, a greenhouse gas, in the absence of oxygen; burning of non-biodegradable waste releases a cocktail of harmful pollutants such as black carbon into the atmosphere; every recyclable item such as a glass bottle shows a wasted opportunity where resources could be conserved and actually utilized to their full potential. Waste management intends to reduce the ill effects of waste on human health, the environment, and the aesthetics of the area. By managing the waste from its inception to its final disposal we can help curb waste-borne issues.

IMPROPER WASTE DISPOAL:

The tendrils of improper waste management stretch far beyond climate change, strangling the very concept of sustainability. Our oceans, once pristine blue canvases, are now choked with plastic debris. This marine pollution doesn't just entangle wildlife; it introduces microplastics into the food chain, a grim testament to humanity’s pervasive imprint. These microplastics can lead to health issues such as food poisoning for the people consuming food affected by them. Our soil, the very bedrock of our food security, becomes tainted by leachate from landfills, poisoning groundwater and rendering fertile lands barren. The delicate biodiversity of ecosystems is affected by the improper waste disposal that is seen in a majority of the areas today affecting the fish swimming in the sea to the microbes in the soil, not to forget, you. It’s not all disdain however if we act fast and smart we can help curb the issues caused by the improper waste management seen nowadays.

THE ROAD AHEAD:

The solution is more important than the problem. It is something that is in our control, which we can influence for a result that we want to see. By collaboration between the government, private non-profits, private companies and we, the community we can ensure that the solutions that will be discussed have an impact that will be remembered. Here, are the steps you can take to ensure you do your part in this mission for a cleaner tomorrow:

  • Compost Organic Waste: If you have a garden or even a small balcony, start composting your food scraps like fruit peels, vegetable waste, and coffee grounds. This turns organic matter into rich soil, diverting a significant portion of waste from landfills.
  • Live by the 5 R’s (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle.): This powerful framework summarizes a holistic approach to waste. It encourages you to rethink your consumption habits and the impact of your choices, refuse unnecessary items, especially single-use plastics and excessive packaging, reduce your overall consumption by buying less and choosing durable goods, reuse items creatively to find new purposes for old things, and finally, recycle what absolutely cannot be reused, ensuring materials re-enter the production cycle instead of heading to a landfill.
  • Reduce Your Consumption: This is the most crucial step. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if you truly need it. Think about whether you can borrow, repair, or buy a used item instead. Less consumption means less waste generated in the first place.
  • Reuse What You Can: Before discarding an item, consider if it has another life. Glass jars can become storage containers, old clothes can be repurposed as cleaning rags, and plastic containers can hold leftovers. Get creative!
  • Recycle Diligently: Understand what can and cannot be recycled in your area. Wash and sort your recyclables properly to avoid contamination. Make it a habit to check recycling symbols on packaging.
  • Repair Before Replacing: If something breaks, try to fix it. Many items like electronics, appliances, and clothing can be repaired, saving you money and preventing unnecessary waste.
  • Carry Reusables: Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and even a set of reusable cutlery when you're out and about. This drastically cuts down on single-use plastic waste.
  • Donate and Sell Unwanted Items: Instead of throwing away clothes, furniture, or electronics you no longer need, donate them to charities, give them to friends or family, or sell them online. This extends their lifespan and keeps them out of landfills.
  • Practice Smart Shopping: Choose products with minimal packaging or packaging that is easily recyclable. opt for durable goods over single-use items. Bringing your own reusable bags to the store is a simple yet impactful habit.
  • Support Businesses with Sustainable Practices: Choose to buy from companies that prioritize sustainable packaging, ethical production, and waste reduction in their operations. Your purchasing power can influence positive change.
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learn more about waste management best practices and share your knowledge with friends, family, and your community. The more people who are aware and actively participate, the greater the collective impact.