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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) Explain how consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management.
Answer
Consumers can take several actionable steps to contribute to sustainable waste management. One effective method is composting, which involves the process of recycling organic waste to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment. By composting kitchen scraps and yard waste, consumers reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and enhance soil health.
Another method is buying in bulk. Purchasing items in larger quantities not only minimizes packaging waste but also reduces the frequency of shopping trips, resulting in lower carbon emissions from transportation. Consumers can also prioritize buying recyclable products that are designed to be repurposed at the end of their lifecycle. This promotes a circular economy, where materials are continuously reused.
Additionally, opting for concentrated detergents allows consumers to utilize less packaging and use smaller quantities, reducing waste overall.
Step 2
(ii) Explain how consumers can contribute to sustainable waste management.
Answer
There are various strategies consumers can adopt that align with the principles of sustainable waste management. Prevention is paramount; consumers should consciously avoid products with excessive packaging and choose durable options that will last longer. Moreover, minimisation involves reducing overall consumption and only purchasing necessary items to decrease waste generation.
Reusing items, instead of discarding them, extends their life cycle and decreases landfill contributions. Recycling materials like paper, plastics, and metals ensures these materials are processed and transformed into new products, effectively reducing the demand for virgin resources. Furthermore, consumers can engage in energy recovery, choosing to support waste-to-energy facilities where appropriate. Finally, proper disposal of non-recyclable waste is essential; consumers must follow local guidelines to ensure waste is handled correctly, minimizing environmental impact.