Unit #8: Waste & Human Health Review

What is typical "household" waste?

• hazardous waste

• municipal solid waste

• agricultural waste

Potentially explosive or chemically reactive

• hazardous waste

• municipal solid waste

• agricultural waste

Contains plant matter, fertilizer, and pesticide residue

• hazardous waste

• municipal solid waste

• agricultural waste

Which of these materials in municipal waste would be considered biodegradable?

• glass bottles

• metal cans

• glass clippings and leaves

Municipal waste production in the United States has increased ____________________ the population growth rate.

• faster than

• slower than

• all about the same rate as

Which form of waste disposal is no longer in use in most developed countries.

• sanitary landfills

• open dumps

• incinerators

Which is not a disadvantage of using sanitary landfills to dispose of municipal solid waste?

• Sanitary landfills are the most expensive waste disposal option.

• They can leak into groundwater if not lined properly.

• They can run out of space, especially in heavily populated areas.

What is an advantage of incineration over other waste disposal methods?

• Incineration increases the volume of waste the must be placed in the landfill.

• Lower risk of air pollution.

• The costs of building and running ans incinerator are much lower.

Implementing cash deposits on recyclable materials, such as car batteries and (in some states) drink cans and bottles results in ___________________ in recycling rates.

• an increase

• a decrease

• no change

What is the drawback to recycling materials like metals, glass, and plastics?

• Recycling requires more energy

• The amount of material recaptured for future use is minimal

• Market prices for recycled materials can fluctuate wildly.