Passage Based Questions: Geographical Perspective on Selected Issues and Problems | Geography Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Environmental pollution caused by solid wastes has gained significant attention due to the enormous increase in the quantity of wastes generated from various sources. Solid waste refers to a variety of old and used items, such as small pieces of stained metals, broken glassware, plastic containers, polythene bags, ash, floppies, CDs, etc., which are discarded at different locations. These discarded materials are also known as refuse, garbage, rubbish, etc., and are disposed of from two main sources: (i) household or domestic establishments, and (ii) industrial or commercial establishments. Household wastes are disposed of either on public lands or at private contractors' sites, while the solid wastes from industrial units are collected and disposed of through public (municipal) facilities at low-lying public grounds (landfill areas). The large amounts of ashes and debris generated from industries, thermal power plants, and construction or demolition activities have led to serious problems. Solid wastes pose health hazards by creating obnoxious smells and attracting flies and rodents, which can carry diseases like typhoid, diphtheria, diarrhea, malaria, and cholera. These wastes also cause frequent nuisances when carelessly handled, spread by the wind, or splattered by rainwater.

Answer the following questions:

Q1: What is meant by solid waste?
Ans. Solid waste is the unwanted or useless solid materials generated from human activities in residential, industrial, or commercial areas.

Q2: What methods can be used to control solid waste pollution?
Ans. Various methods are practiced to control solid waste pollution, including composting, recycling, incineration, pyrolysis, disposal, and landfills.

Q3: Provide an example of solid waste.
Ans. Construction debris is an example of solid waste.

Q4: What factors have contributed to the increase in solid waste?
Ans. Overpopulation, urbanization, and growing technology are among the few reasons for solid waste pollution. The rising population has led to the production of more waste, with each passing year, as people acquire more items to use and discard.