Flashcards for Waste Management and Product Eco-Design

What are the 5 R's of waste management?

Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot.

What is the cradle-to-cradle concept?

A sustainable production strategy where products are designed to be reused or recycled indefinitely, mimicking natural ecosystems.

What are the two main types of recycling?

Closed-loop recycling: Recycling materials into similar products. Secondary recycling: Recycling materials into different products.

What is a life cycle assessment (LCA)?

A method for evaluating the environmental impact of a product from its creation (cradle) to its disposal (grave).

What is e-waste, and why is it a problem?

E-waste refers to discarded electronic devices. It poses environmental and health risks due to hazardous materials like heavy metals.

What is phytoremediation?

The use of plants and trees to clean up pollutants like metals, pesticides, and leachates from contaminated sites.

What is the Basel Convention?

An international treaty aimed at reducing hazardous waste generation, promoting environmentally sound management, and restricting transboundary movement of hazardous waste.

What is the primary difference between composting and incineration for waste disposal?

Composting decomposes organic waste for reuse in soil, while incineration burns waste to generate energy but can release pollutants.

What is the environmental justice issue associated with e-waste?

E-waste is often exported to developing countries where it is improperly disposed of, causing health and environmental problems.

What are PAHs, and why are they concerning?

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic chemicals released during the incomplete burning of organic matter, causing pollution and health risks.

What are the key features of a green building?

Energy efficiency, water efficiency, non-toxic materials, and waste recycling systems.

What is urban sprawl, and why is it problematic?

Urban sprawl refers to low-density, automobile-dependent development patterns that result in habitat destruction, pollution, and inefficient land use.

What is a green wall?

A vertical structure covered in vegetation, which provides insulation, absorbs CO2, and enhances urban aesthetics.

How can cities be made more livable and sustainable?

By incorporating eco-friendly designs, reducing pollution, promoting public transportation, and creating green spaces.

What is bird-friendly design in urban planning?

Designing buildings and urban structures to prevent bird collisions, such as using glass that mimics the sky.