What can I do with my wastes?
- Landfill is the most popular choice used today, but NOT the only option. Due to decreasing land space, contamination, and pollution issues from the wastes, this option is being reconsidered in many areas. Keep in mind it is illegal to use this method when disposing of hazardous wastes and most industrial wastes. Click here to read more about Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR).
- Open dumping or more accurately, illegal dumping, is an inexpensive and convenient method and a POOR decision to say the least. When you choose this option you are creating air pollution and ground water contamination. Don’t be that guy!
How drinking water becomes contaminated.
- Incineration, combustion, and vaporization are thermal treatment methods in which wastes are converted into steam, heat, ash, and gas by way of extreme temperatures. There are several methods to achieve this sort of process, including the vaporization of wastes in which temperatures exceed 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The advantage of thermal treatment is that it significantly reduces the original waste volume and the use of landfill space, while generating unconventional energy resources.
- Recover, recycle, and refine are methods by which wastes are used for another process or product. Ultimately, by selecting one of these methods you will minimize wastes by reducing energy usage, volume of landfills, and significantly reduce air and water pollution. This equates into the overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of natural resources. Be that guy!
Did you know? When you select to recycle or refine some of your industrial or hazardous wastes you may be subject to a reduction in regulations and other waste fees. For example, companies have the option to refine their wastes for precious metals, recycle common workplace items, and turn in scrap metal.
Click here to see advantages and disadvantages of disposal methods.