This blog series sets out to describe the importance of waste management and the impacts it can have in urban settings and communities, both in developed and developing nations. The next four posts will cover several topics including 1) types of waste and waste management techniques; 2) human health impacts of waste; 3) ecological and environmental consequences of waste management practices; and 4) current innovative strategies and techniques implemented by several cities. As a graduate student studying environmental science in the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University, I have always been fascinated by the many aspects of waste management. In my experience, many individuals function by the “out of sight, out of mind” mantra in that they dispose of garbage or waste and simply forget about its environmental impact or legacy. The primary purpose of this blog series is to spread awareness about the importance of proper waste management and the risks of poor disposal practices. Waste can take on many forms such as municipal solid waste, industrial, construction and demolition, and medical waste. However, this series will focus largely on municipal solid waste which is generally made up of everyday, household trash items. Through this type of medium, I hope to provide relevant information to concerned citizens and action groups, as well as community planners or municipalities hoping to adapt their waste management strategy.
