Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2015

Last exams 2025

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Waste Disposal Methods (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

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Waste Disposal Methods

  • Waste disposal is critical in managing and minimising the environmental impact of waste

  • Various methods are available, each offering distinct approaches to handling waste materials

Landfills

  • Landfills involve burying waste in designated areas, often lined with protective barriers

  • They provide a centralised and controlled disposal method for a wide range of waste types

Advantages and Disadvantages of Landfills

Advantages

Disadvantages

Provides centralised waste management

Generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas

Can accommodate a wide range of waste types

Requires suitable land availability and careful site selection

Relatively low operational costs compared to other options

Potential risk of groundwater and soil contamination

Can be engineered with liners and leachate collection systems to minimise environmental impact

Long-term management and monitoring required after closure

Incineration

  • Incineration involves the controlled burning of waste materials at high temperatures

  • It reduces the volume of waste and can sometimes be used generate energy through the combustion process

Advantages and Disadvantages of Incineration

Advantages

Disadvantages

Reduces the volume of waste and minimises space requirements

Releases air pollutants, including greenhouse gases and toxic emissions (public concerns over health and environmental impacts)

Potential to generate energy through the combustion process (provides waste-to-energy potential)

Requires careful management of air emissions and ash disposal

Reduces the reliance on landfills

Potential for the release of hazardous substances during incineration

Can handle various types of waste, including hazardous waste

High operating costs

Recycling

  • Recycling focuses on converting waste materials into reusable materials

  • It conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and minimises greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of new materials

Advantages and Disadvantages of Recycling

Advantages

Disadvantages

Conserves natural resources and reduces the need for raw materials

Requires energy and resources for collection, sorting, and processing

Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills or incinerators

Limited availability and accessibility of recycling facilities

Saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions

Contamination of recyclables can hinder the recycling process

Prevents pollution caused by extracting and processing raw materials

Some materials are difficult or costly to recycle

Creates job opportunities in the recycling industry

Market demand and prices for recycled materials can fluctuate

Reusing

  • Reusing involves using products or materials multiple times instead of discarding or recycling them

  • It extends the lifespan of products, reduces waste generation, and decreases resource consumption

Advantages and Disadvantages of Reusing

Advantages

Disadvantages

Reduces the need for new products and resource extraction

Limited availability of reusable items in certain areas

Saves energy and resources required for manufacturing

Requires proper cleaning and maintenance of reusable items

Minimises waste generation and landfill usage

May not be suitable for all types of products or materials

Can be cost-effective, saving money for individuals or businesses

Limited market for used or second-hand items in some cases

Promotes a circular economy and sustainable consumption

Requires a change in consumer behaviour and mindset

Composting

  • Composting involves the decomposition of organic waste materials into nutrient-rich soil

  • Successful composting relies on the proper balance of organic materials, moisture, and aeration to facilitate the decomposition process

  • It diverts organic waste from landfills, reduces methane emissions, and produces high-quality compost for use in agriculture and landscaping

Advantages and Disadvantages of Composting

Advantages

Disadvantages

Diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions

Requires space and proper management for composting process

Produces nutrient-rich compost for soil enrichment

Takes time for organic waste to decompose and turn into compost

Reduces the need for chemical fertilisers

Some materials may not be suitable for composting (e.g., meat, dairy)

Helps retain soil moisture and reduces erosion

Potential for odour and pest issues if not properly managed

Promotes healthier plant growth and biodiversity

Requires knowledge and education to ensure proper composting practices

  • These waste disposal options offer a range of strategies for managing waste materials effectively

  • The choice of method depends on various factors, including the type of waste, available infrastructure, environmental considerations, and societal preferences

  • Implementing a combination of these options can contribute to sustainable waste management and resource conservation

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

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