Waste hierarchy is a system used to help classify refuse commercially so that it can be disposed of more efficiently. The waste hierarchy has been in place for some time and has been implemented in a number of different forms. Using this hierarchy waste disposal can be carried out in as economic and efficient a manner as possible.
The following information explains how the waste hierarchy can be implemented to assist in the smooth running of refuse disposal.
Waste Management Methods
In principal the waste hierarchy is used to classify various methods of waste disposal. These can be broadly summed up into one of three categories.
- Waste Reduction - Trying to reduce the amount of rubbish that is produced. There are a variety of methods that can be used to increase the efficiency of packaging and products to reduce waste.
Waste Reuse - Finding ways to reuse rubbish that is generated as a result of industrial and agricultural processes. Methods include simple solutions such as using manure and other farm waste to create fertiliser. Reuse is now favoured over reduction as more waste is used for new purposes instead of being disposed of.- Recycling is the most favoured option in the waste hierarchy. Recycling has been practised in varying forms throughout the world for some time and is beginning to become much more commonplace in today's society. When we recycle little or no waste is disposed of at all.
Waste Minimisation
Waste hierarchy has been implemented in many different ways over the past ten years. The purpose of waste hierarchy is to adjust with changes present in the current waste disposal and recycling standards.
A pivotal aspect of waste hierarchy is what many professionals in the waste management industry refer to as the fourth R, "re-think". By constantly challenging the way we dispose of waste and finding more innovative ways to recycle and reuse refuse we are helping the world to become a more inhabitable place for everyone. By encouraging research into new materials to make packaging that is either bio degradable or easier to recycle we can minimise waste produced and help to keep the waste hierarchy in good order.
As manufacturers and producers of products become gradually more efficient and environmentally friendly we as people can adjust to improving recycling facilities and reducing waste levels produced. Many businesses are taking this on board by becoming more green and initiating plans such as reducing their carbon footprint by using vehicles and machinery with lower emissions to reduce affects of global warming.