Understanding Sustainability and Waste Management

Sustainability

Meeting present needs without harming future generations.

Finite Resource

Resource that cannot renew quickly enough.

Examples of Finite Resources

Coal, oil, natural gas, minerals.

Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking)

Controversial method for extracting oil and gas.

Non-finite Resource

Resource that replenishes quickly enough for needs.

Examples of Non-finite Resources

Water, trees, renewable energy sources.

Renewable Energy

Energy from sources that replenish naturally.

Life Cycle of a Product

Consideration of environmental impact throughout product's life.

Low-impact Materials

Materials that minimize environmental harm during use.

Recycled Materials

Materials reused to conserve resources and reduce waste.

Ecological Footprint

Impact of a product on the environment.

Social Footprint

Company's impact on people and communities.

Waste Disposal

Methods of dealing with waste at end of life.

Landfill

Common waste disposal method involving burying waste.

Problems with Landfill

Pollution, methane gas, wildlife effects, noise.

Resource Recovery

Process of recovering materials for specific uses.

Recycling

Converting waste materials into new products.

Composting

Decomposing organic waste for soil enrichment.

Energy Recovery

Generating energy from waste materials.

Incineration

Burning waste to reduce volume significantly.

Pollutants from Incineration

Gas emissions including CO2 and other harmful substances.

Environmental Impact

Effects of actions on natural surroundings.

Technological Advancements

Innovations improving resource efficiency and sustainability.