Waste management is the backbone of environmental health and circular resource use. From collection to recovery, modern systems are shifting from disposal to circularity and resource efficiency.
Efficient collection systems and source separation are critical for clean recycling streams. Color-coded bins, public awareness, and automation (e.g., AI sorting) improve recovery rates.
Material recovery facilities (MRFs) handle plastics, metals, glass, paper, and organics. Advanced technologies enable closed-loop recycling, turning waste into new raw materials.
Non-recyclable waste is treated via incineration (with energy recovery) or landfilling. Landfills emit methane and leach pollutants; best practices include gas capture and liner systems.
Tools like extended producer responsibility (EPR), landfill taxes, and deposit-return systems (DRS) incentivize waste reduction and producer accountability.
Cities around the world are adopting zero waste roadmaps — designing systems that prevent waste upstream, promote reuse, and eliminate landfilling through circular infrastructure.