Global Waste - True or False

Now that we are all more aware, we are getting the issue of waste under control

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The volume of waste humans are producing continues to grow and grow fast - it is very unlikely to peak in this century. 

Waste is essentially, a technical challenge and can be resolved technically

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Waste is now truly global and at the same time, deeply personal. 

Disposable economy 

Waste is primarily an issue for the so-called

'developed world'

• True

• False

Answer explanation

While the highest volumes of waste have been generated in developed countries (and still are if measured per capita) in recent decards, this is now no longer the case. 

The steepest rates of waste increase are now being recorded in Africa and South Asis. 

Waste is an unfortunately side effect of our type of economy

• True

• False

Answer explanation

We live in what many argue is a 'make, use, dispose' economy. 

Our constant focus on waste as an 'end product' in our economy, often prevents us from seeing it as a build in components of that economy. 

The risks posed by waste are 'low-risk'.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The most hazardous wastes still exists. 

People continue to be killed in 'waste slides' beside mega dumps while health and well-being of local populations is damaged. 

The answer is simple - reduce, reuse, recycle

• True

• False

Answer explanation

All too often when dealing with waste or when tackling environmental and sustaibale development issues we tend to opt for simple solutions. 

Focusing on simply reducing, reusing, recycling alone without considering the biggest picture is just too simplistic. 

Waste is Waste - it has little value

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The management of waste is profitable. 

Waste has non-material value, when it bring together use, art and politics. 

Some waste has value (electronic waste) 

Waste us essentially, as matter for each individual

• True

• False

Answer explanation

How waste is generated and what can be done about its impact and where it ends up are matters that can be challenged and changes by individuals and communities. 

Whate one person, family, or community can do is very significant

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Arguing that 'it's up to others' - passing the buck is neither reasonable nor fair.

The debate on waste is about issues such as plastic, food, turning off light switches, reducing water waste and the need for recycling 

• True

• False 

Answer explanation

Much more complex and widespread: 

Sewage 

Municipal solid waste 

Agriculture and forestry waste 

Construction and demolition waste 

Mining and quarrying waste 

Hazardous waste 

Nuclear and raido-active waste