All Flashcards
What is the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA)?
US law for high-level radioactive waste disposal.
What is the purpose of Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy?
To regulate the handling of less dangerous radioactive waste.
What is the waste management hierarchy?
Reduce > Reuse > Recycle. Reducing waste is the most effective.
Why is source reduction the most effective waste reduction method?
It minimizes the amount of material used, leading to less waste created initially.
How do recycling and reuse contribute to a sustainable future?
They conserve resources and reduce environmental impact by decreasing the need for new products.
What is the role of microorganisms in biological waste treatment?
Microorganisms break down organic waste, reducing waste volume and creating useful by-products.
Why are waste policies important?
Governments set rules to manage waste, protect the environment, and ensure fair practices.
What is the significance of landfill regulations?
They control where and how landfills are built and operated to minimize environmental impact.
What is a circular economy?
An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.
Why is radioactive waste management so critical?
Radioactive waste needs special attention due to its potential harm to the environment and human health.
What is the difference between low-level and high-level radioactive waste?
High-level waste is much more dangerous and requires long-term storage, while low-level waste is less dangerous.
What is the goal of zero waste policies?
To eliminate landfill waste by maximizing waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting efforts.
How can source reduction promote sustainability?
By minimizing material use, it reduces waste generation and resource depletion.
How can composting promote sustainability?
It reduces landfill waste, creates nutrient-rich soil, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
How can green procurement help protect the environment?
By promoting the purchase of eco-friendly products, it encourages sustainable manufacturing and reduces environmental impact.
How can anaerobic digestion contribute to sustainability?
It converts waste into biogas, a renewable energy source, and reduces methane emissions from landfills.
How can Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) promote sustainability?
By making manufacturers responsible for their products' end-of-life management, it encourages more sustainable product design and recycling practices.
How can education and awareness promote sustainability?
By informing the public about waste reduction methods and their benefits, it encourages more sustainable behavior.