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Explain how consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 12 - 2019
Question 12
Explain how consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management. (i) (ii)
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain how consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 12 - 2019
Step 1
(i)
Answer
Consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management in several ways. Firstly, they can engage in composting, which involves the decomposition of organic waste, turning it into valuable nutrients for soil. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Secondly, buying in bulk helps to reduce packaging waste. When consumers opt for bulk purchases, they not only save money but also diminish the amount of single-use packaging.
Additionally, purchasing recyclable products ensures that the materials can be processed and repurposed after their initial use, promoting a circular economy. Finally, choosing concentrated detergents minimizes the amount of product needed, thus reducing waste from unnecessary packaging.
Step 2
(ii)
Answer
In terms of broader strategies, consumers can actively participate in prevention and minimisation of waste generation by being mindful of their purchasing decisions. Reusing products whenever possible helps to extend the lifecycle of materials and reduces the overall demand for new products.
Moreover, engaging in recycling practices allows consumers to ensure that materials are repurposed effectively. Energy recovery techniques can also be employed, where waste materials are converted into usable energy rather than being disposed of. Finally, responsible disposal ensures that hazardous waste is handled properly, preventing environmental contamination.