All Flashcards
What is the waste management hierarchy?
Reduce > Reuse > Recycle. Reducing waste is the most effective.
Why is source reduction the most effective waste reduction method?
It minimizes the amount of material used, leading to less waste created initially.
How do recycling and reuse contribute to a sustainable future?
They conserve resources and reduce environmental impact by decreasing the need for new products.
What is the role of microorganisms in biological waste treatment?
Microorganisms break down organic waste, reducing waste volume and creating useful by-products.
Why are waste policies important?
Governments set rules to manage waste, protect the environment, and ensure fair practices.
What is the significance of landfill regulations?
They control where and how landfills are built and operated to minimize environmental impact.
What is a circular economy?
An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.
Why is radioactive waste management so critical?
Radioactive waste needs special attention due to its potential harm to the environment and human health.
What is the difference between low-level and high-level radioactive waste?
High-level waste is much more dangerous and requires long-term storage, while low-level waste is less dangerous.
What is the goal of zero waste policies?
To eliminate landfill waste by maximizing waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting efforts.
What are the environmental consequences of increased waste generation?
Landfill capacity issues, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource depletion.
What are the effects of improper landfill management?
Groundwater contamination, methane emissions, and soil pollution.
How does recycling benefit the environment?
Saves natural resources, reduces energy use, and cuts down on landfill waste.
What is a potential environmental hazard associated with abandoned landfills?
Groundwater contamination from leachate.
What are the effects of methane emissions from landfills?
Contributes to global warming as a potent greenhouse gas.
What is the result of incineration of waste?
Reduces waste volume, but can release air pollutants if not properly managed.
What is the impact of plastic pollution on the environment?
Harms wildlife, pollutes oceans, and persists for long periods.
What is the effect of composting on soil quality?
Improves soil structure, fertility, and water retention.
What is the effect of deforestation on waste management?
Reduces the availability of natural resources for recycling and increases waste generation.
What are the effects of improper disposal of electronic waste?
Releases toxic chemicals, such as lead and mercury, into the environment.
What is the purpose of the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA)?
US law for high-level radioactive waste disposal, establishing procedures and responsibilities.
What do landfill regulations typically address?
Siting, construction, operation, and closure of landfills to minimize environmental impact.
What is the aim of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies?
To make manufacturers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products.
What is the goal of Waste-to-Energy policies?
To convert waste into energy through incineration or other technologies.
What is the purpose of Recycling Mandates?
To require the recycling of specific materials by law.
What is the purpose of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy?
To define rules for handling less dangerous radioactive waste.
What is the purpose of Nuclear Facility Decommissioning?
To ensure the safe shutdown and cleanup of nuclear plants.
What is the purpose of Nuclear Transport Regulations?
To ensure the safe packaging and transport of radioactive materials.
What is the purpose of Radiation Protection Regulations?
To protect workers and the public from radiation.
What is the aim of Zero Waste Policies?
To eliminate landfill waste through reduction, reuse, and recycling.