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We are an integral part of the environment. Our activities change the environment around us. Changes in the environment affect us.
Environmental problems like depletion of the ozone layer and waste disposal are issues that have to be dealt with serious concern.
In our daily activities, we generate a lot of materials that are thrown away. These accumulated wastes can be classified as biodegradable and non-biodegradable. Substances that are broken down by biological processes are said to be biodegradable. Substances that are not broken down by biological processes are said to be non-biodegradable.
The huge amount of municipal refuse generated daily demands a highly efficient system to manage its collection and disposal. Waste management has been a serious issue in urban areas. Disposing garbage at the outskirts of a city is a common sight. Empty cans, food wrappers etc. which are non-biodegradable are littered in crowded places and tourist centres. It is necessary to have awareness regarding methods of disposing different types of waste.
Improvements in our life-style have resulted in greater amounts of waste material generation. Changes in attitude also have a role to play, with more and more things we use becoming disposable. Changes in packaging have resulted in much of our waste becoming non-biodegradable.
The disposal of the waste we generate is causing serious environmental problems. There are a number of concepts about waste management, which vary in their usage between countries or regions. The waste hierarchy refers to the "3 Rs" reduce, reuse and recycle, which classify waste management strategies according to their desirability in terms of waste minimization.
E- waste
E-waste
What contributes to e-waste? Discarded electronic devices like televisions, personal computers, floppies, audio-video CDs, batteries, electric switches, telephones, air conditioners, cellphones, electronic toys, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, kitchen utensils and even aircraft contribute to the growing pile of e-waste in the city. At least, 30,000 personal computers are sent for dismantling evey year in the city. How is it hazardous? These products contain components that contain toxic substances like lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, plastic, PVC, BFRs, barium, beryllium, and carcinogens like carbon black and heavy metals. The deadly mix can cause severe health problems for those handling the waste. It could even prove fatal.
Sewage Treatment
Sewage Treatment
The ultimate return of used water to the environment is done by treating sewage. Typically, sewage treatment involves three stages. They are primary, secondary and tertiary.
The solids are first separated from the waste water. The dissolved biological matter is gradually converted into a solid mass by using water-borne bacteria. Finally the biological solids are neutralized and then disposed off or reused. The treated water is disinfected chemically. The final effluent is usually discharged into a stream or water body or used for irrigation.