Curiosidades

What is hazardous waste?

Waste is hazardous when it contains substances or has properties that might make it harmful to human health or the environment. The term ‘‘hazardous‘‘ does not always mean that such waste is immediately toxic, though some can be. By improving the way in which we manage all wastes classified as …

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What happens to hazardous waste?

For a long time hazardous & non-hazardous wastes have been ‘co-disposed’ into landfill (ie put in the same hole in the ground). This mixing of waste could cause long term damage to the environment and also has the potential for different types of waste to react with each other. The …

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How does hazardous waste affect the environment?

Any waste could be harmful if it is managed badly or disposed of illegally. However, these risks are very small when hazardous waste is managed properly. Research has shown a statistical connection between some waste operations and some forms of illness. But, it has not shown that the waste operations …

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UK – waste problem needs many solutions

Here is a useful contribution from Professor Chris Coggins (WAMTECH) posted by BBC Online and linked to last night‘‘s TV docu-drama (If the toxic timebomb goes off, on BBC 2). Chris argues that a range of options must all play a part in addressing the problem. Achieving “zero waste” is …

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England – landfill allowance trading scheme goes live

The Landfill Allowance Trading Scheme (LATS), one of the government‘‘s key measures to reduce the amount of biodegradable waste going to landfill, goes live from April 1. The scheme will see progressive reductions in the amount of biodegradable municipal waste – such as paper, food and garden waste – that …

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World – experts warn ecosystem changes will continue to worsen

A study reveals that approximately 60 per cent of the ecosystem services that support life on Earth – such as fresh water, capture fisheries, air and water regulation, and the regulation of regional climate, natural hazards and pests – are being degraded or used unsustainably. Scientists warn that the harmful …

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UK – new funding for waste management announced

A new £284 million initiative to help businesses manage resources more efficiently and cut waste has been launched by Environment Minister Elliot Morley. The Business Resource Efficiency and Waste (BREW) programme recycles revenue generated through increases in Landfill Tax to fund a range of free services and targeted support for …

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