Methods For Disposal Of Solid Waste
According to research, at least 27.7 million tonnes of waste was generated in the UK in 2016. That’s 3 years ago, that figure has definitely gone up now. Unless effective waste management methods are put in place, most of this waste ends up in landfills.
Biodegradable wastes and non-biodegradable waste, like radioactive remnants, can cause irreplaceable damage to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. Waste management is important as it helps avoid the adverse effects on human health, the natural environment, and animal habitats.
The increased growth in industrialization and population has heightened the need to have effective methods of disposal of solid waste. Here are some of the methods used to dispose of solid waste.
- Recovery and recycling
- Landfill
In this method, waste material is buried underground. It’s one of the most common waste disposal methods in developing countries, although it’s popularity is diminishing as space gets scarcer. The greatest disadvantage is that the methane gas and other harmful gases produced in landfill causes air pollution, water pollution, and contamination which has a negative impact on both human and animal life and the environment. It also calls for skilled manpower to maintain the sanitary landfills.
- Composting
It is ideal for organic wastes such as kitchen, garden waste and its recycling. The bio-degradation process turns the decomposed solid waste into a nutrient-rich compost that can be used as plant manure. The biological reprocessing boosts soil fertility. However, this method requires a significant amount of land and it is a slow process.
There are two main methods of composting:
- Mechanical composting
This method takes at most Seven days to produce humus which is then treated in open windows for another 21 days and later distributed in the market, as a farm product.
- Open window composting
In this method, waste is arranged into piles and kept at an average moisture content of about 60%. The temperature of the pile rises to 70°c after a few days following the biological reactions taking place in them; it is turned regularly to stabilize moisture and temperature. The final product is then tested for any impure substances such as plastics, metals, and refuse that did not decompose completely. The discomposed waste can either be thrown away or taken through the same process. This whole procedure takes a maximum of five months, depending on the quantity and quality required.
- Thermal treatment
Also known as incineration, it is a waste disposal method that subjects solid waste to high temperatures, converting it to gas and residue. It reduces the volume of solid waste up to 30% lowering the dependency on landfill disposal.
Reducing Waste Production
This is a simple method exercised in most developing countries. It encourages the use of second-hand materials and mending old products to avoid buying new ones while they can still function equally well. Manufacturers are urged to produce more complicated products instead of disposables. This way, waste generation is minimized.
Conclusion
London Rubbish Removal prides itself on offering effective waste management solutions to businesses, offices, construction sites, and the likes. Our recycling rates are some of the highest you’ll find with any London waste removal company. Talk to us today for effective, affordable, and sustainable waste removal services in London.
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