What is a key strategy for waste reduction?

Implementing recycling and composting programs is a key strategy for waste reduction because these practices help divert materials from landfills and incinerators, thus minimizing the overall volume of waste produced. Recycling involves processing materials such as paper, plastics, and metals to create new products, which conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of new items. Composting, on the other hand, allows organic waste like food scraps and yard waste to decompose naturally, turning it into nutrient-rich soil amendments that can be used in gardens and agriculture. Together, these strategies foster a circular economy where materials are continually reused, promoting sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of waste.

In contrast, incineration methods focus on burning waste, which can lead to air pollution and does not contribute to resource recovery. Building more landfills merely provides a temporary solution for waste disposal without addressing the underlying issue of waste generation. Encouraging the use of single-use products contributes to increased waste production and hinders efforts to reduce overall waste, as these products are typically designed to be used once and discarded.