Solid waste

Science

Definition

Solid waste includes all discarded solid materials from residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sources. Managing solid waste through reduction, reuse, recycling, and proper disposal is critical for reducing pollution and conserving resources.

Examples

  • Municipal garbage collected from homes going to landfills
  • Electronic waste (old phones and computers) requiring special recycling
  • Composting food scraps and yard waste to reduce landfill volume

Related Terms

Soil contamination Water pollution Greenhouse effect Urbanization

Study This Concept

Practice solid waste with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 8: Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution