Real World Science: Waste Management and Recycling

What happens to leaves when they fall to the ground?

• They become part of nature's recycling system.

• They remain on the ground indefinitely.

• They are collected by animals.

• They are burned by forest fires.

Which type of waste makes up the largest percentage of human garbage?

• Glass

• Metal

• Paper

• Plastic

How long can it take for a banana peel to decompose in a landfill?

• 1-2 years

• 2-5 years

• 10-20 years

• 50-100 years

What is a benefit of waste-to-energy facilities?

• They are very expensive to operate.

• They require a lot of space.

• They reduce the need for landfills.

• They increase air pollution.

What is the first step in recycling glass jars and bottles?

• Melting them down.

• Sorting them by color.

• Mixing them with other materials.

• Crushing them into small pieces.

What is one way to reduce paper waste?

• Throw away unused paper.

• Use both sides of a sheet of paper.

• Avoid using paper altogether.

• Burn paper waste.

What is composting?

• Mixing organic waste to decompose naturally.

• Burning waste to generate energy.

• Burying waste in landfills.

• Recycling plastic materials.

What is a practical way to reduce lunch waste?

• Pack lunch in reusable containers.

• Throw away leftovers.

• Use disposable bags.

• Buy pre-packaged meals.

Why is it important to avoid over-packaged products?

• They are not available in stores.

• They are difficult to recycle.

• They contribute to excessive waste.

• They are more expensive.

What are the three R's of waste management?

• Recycle, Reuse, Reduce

• Recycle, Rebuild, Reuse

• Reduce, Recycle, Rebuild

• Reuse, Rebuild, Reduce