Solid Waste Management Quiz

What societal change after World War II contributed to the increase in solid waste production?

• The increase in global population

• The shift to a throw-away society

• The development of renewable energy

• The rise of digital technology

Which of the following is considered e-waste?

• Yard clippings

• Old televisions

• Plastic bottles

• Metal cans

What is the primary reason for the increase in municipal solid waste in the US over the last half-century?

• Increased recycling efforts

• Higher consumption rates

• Decreased industrial production

• Improved waste management technologies

What is the main goal of composting in waste management?

• To generate electricity

• To reduce air pollution

• To increase landfill capacity

• To recycle nutrients back into the environment

What is a significant risk associated with e-waste disposal in developing countries?

• Higher costs of waste management

• Lack of health standards leading to dangerous conditions

• Increased greenhouse gas emissions

• Depletion of natural resources

What is the purpose of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)?

• To reduce the use of fossil fuels

• To regulate hazardous waste from creation to disposal

• To encourage composting in urban areas

• To promote recycling of plastics

Which act was initiated due to the Love Canal contamination incident?

• Clean Air Act

• Superfund Act

• Endangered Species Act

• Safe Drinking Water Act

What is the difference between closed loop and open loop recycling?

• Open loop is more environmentally friendly

• Open loop is used only for metals

• Closed loop recycles materials into the same product, open loop into different products

• Closed loop uses less energy than open loop

What is a key feature of a properly constructed landfill?

• It is lined with plastic or clay to prevent leaching

• It is left open to allow for natural decomposition

• It is built without any methane gas management

• It is located near water sources for easy access

What is the least preferred method of waste management according to the hierarchy discussed?

• Incineration

• Composting

• Landfilling

• Recycling