As highlighted by Thomasnet in their article “Understanding Waste Management: Definition, Environmental Impact, and Strategies,” more than two billion tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated globally each year, with over 33% not managed using environmentally safe processes. With rapid population growth and urbanization, this figure is expected to rise to 3.4 billion tons within the next 30 years. Click here to learn more about waste management and read the full article.
Waste management involves the processes used to safely manage and dispose of various waste types, including MSW, industrial, agricultural, and hazardous waste. The waste hierarchy—a tool that ranks waste management methods by environmental favorability—places prevention at the top, followed by reuse, recycling, recovery, and disposal. Improper waste management can lead to severe environmental and health impacts, particularly in developing countries where over 90% of waste is openly dumped or burned, exacerbating air and water pollution and contributing to global warming.
Incorporating effective waste management strategies into the supply chain can drive significant benefits for businesses, including cost savings, operational efficiencies, and improved brand reputation. By minimizing waste, companies can reduce expenses associated with collection, sorting, and disposal while also conserving scarce resources. Additionally, meeting regulatory requirements for waste management can prevent sanctions and additional taxes.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of Thomasnet.
