Introduction to Waste in Australia

Using the data from the image, analyze why packaging might contribute the most to global plastic waste compared to other categories.

• Packaging is used in almost every industry and for most consumer goods, leading to higher waste.

• Packaging is more durable and less likely to be discarded.

• Packaging is only used in the construction industry.

• Packaging is recycled more than other categories.

According to the infographic, what percentage of the world's plastic waste is actually recycled globally?

• 49%

• 22%

• 19%

• 9%

If you were to develop a strategy to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste, which category should you prioritize for improvement based on the data provided, and why?

• Recycled, because it already has the highest percentage.

• Landfilled, because it represents the largest share of plastic waste.

• Incinerated, because it is the least environmentally friendly.

• Mismanaged, because it is the smallest category.

Based on the definitions provided, what does "mismanaged" plastic waste include?

• Plastics that are recycled properly.

• Plastics that are burned, dumped into water, or disposed of in unsanitary landfills.

• Plastics that are incinerated in controlled facilities.

• Plastics that are reused for new products.

How does Singapore manage its waste to prevent it from piling up?

• By dumping it in landfills

• By exporting it to other countries

• Through high-tech incineration, advanced recycling, and zero-waste innovation

• By burning it in open fields

What was one major consequence of China’s 2018 ban on the import of 24 types of solid waste for Australia?

• Australia increased its recycling rates significantly

• More Australian waste ended up in landfills

• Australia started exporting more waste to the United States

• The cost of waste management in Australia decreased

Based on the graph, which waste management method appears to be most commonly used for organics?

• Landfill

• Recycling

• Treatment

• Waste reuse

Based on the data, which waste management method had the lowest amount collected in 2020-21?

• Garbage to landfill

• Organics

• Recycling

• Garbage to MBT

Based on the data, which waste management method had the greatest amount collected in 2020-21?

• Garbage to landfill

• Organics

• Recycling

• Garbage to MBT

How much are you enjoying your waste audit so far?

• I love it just as I love geography

• Its ok

• oh thats right - thanks for the reminder

• ummm... what waste audit?