The waste management hierarchy serves as a set of procedures that guide the management of hazardous and toxic wastes.
It is a conceptual framework designed to advise on and rank waste management options. It introduces the concept of treating waste as valuable. The figure above illustrates the waste management hierarchy and its five priorities, which are ranked in terms of what’s best for the environment.
If we can salvage parts of things that are going to be thrown away, and repurpose those things in a new way, we can create tremendous value while helping the environment.
How can we reduce the amount of waste generated?
- Do not use disposable products
- Be a proportionate and wise consumer
- Buy products without unnecessary packaging, as much as possible
- Repair and reuse products instead of throwing them out and buying new ones
- Buy second-hand products and clothing
- Manufacturers can make more products that are more durable and less toxic
- The Plastic Bag Law has already prevented the unnecessary consumption and disposal (or in many cases, littering) of millions of tons of plastic bags