Garbage In, Garbage Out Chapter Notes | Eureka Plus Class 6: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

Understanding Biodegradable Waste

Biodegradable waste is the kind of waste that naturally decomposes over time with the help of soil microorganisms. Examples include plant and animal waste materials. This type of waste is essential as it doesn't linger in our surroundings for a long time, thanks to the action of soil organisms.

Kitchen Waste and Its Management

Kitchen waste, which includes vegetable scraps, fruit peels, spoiled food, eggshells, and more, is mostly biodegradable. Managing kitchen waste is not difficult. Soil microorganisms, such as fungi and bacteria, break down this waste into simple substances, enriching the soil and promoting plant growth.

Composting from Household Waste

Compost is formed when plant and animal waste decompose through a natural process. To make compost from household waste:

• Dig a pit in the garden.
• Collect kitchen waste, dry leaves, and more in the pit.
• Cover with soil every few days.
• After filling the pit, leave it undisturbed for about three months.
• Pour water occasionally to aid decomposition.
  This compost is rich in nutrients and benefits plant growth.

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Vermicompost with Redworms

Vermicompost is made with the help of redworms. After collecting biodegradable waste in a pit, redworms are introduced. These worms feed on the waste, enriching the compost with nutrients. Soil microorganisms also play a role in decomposing the waste.

Benefits of Compost

Compost has several benefits:

• It is rich in plant nutrients.
• It can be made from household kitchen waste.
• It helps in managing kitchen waste effectively.

Non-Biodegradable Waste

Materials that do not decompose naturally are called non-biodegradable waste. Plastics, glass, ceramics, and certain chemicals fall into this category. Non-biodegradable waste accumulates in the environment, leading to pollution of land and water bodies.

Clean Surroundings and Our Responsibility

Our surroundings are often not clean because we don't help manage waste properly. Littering makes waste management difficult. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is a government initiative to make India clean through people's participation.

Proper Waste Management

Many cities lack proper waste management systems. Proper waste management is crucial to keeping our surroundings clean. The reduction of waste, reuse of materials, and recycling are key aspects.

Reducing Waste: A Collective Effort

Reducing waste is essential. Reusing materials saves energy and raw materials, reducing the need for disposal. Simple steps like carrying reusable bags and avoiding disposable items contribute to waste reduction.

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Recycling Waste for a Sustainable Future

Household waste, including paper, plastic, glass, and metal, can be recycled to make new products. Recycling is using waste material to create new, useful items. Efficient waste management systems, like those in Switzerland and the Netherlands, recycle nearly 50% of solid waste.

Segregating Waste for Effective Recycling

Segregating waste at the household level is crucial for effective recycling. Materials like paper, plastics, and metals can be sold to recycling units, contributing to waste reduction and providing raw materials.

Waste Disposal Methods: Incineration and Landfilling

Incineration involves burning waste, while landfilling involves burying waste underground. Both methods require careful handling to prevent environmental pollution. Landfill sites, if not managed properly, can produce harmful methane gas.

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Plastics: Useful or Harmful

Plastics are widely used but pose environmental challenges. While they are useful, certain plastic waste is difficult to manage. Minimizing plastic use, proper disposal, and recycling are crucial to prevent plastic pollution.

Preventing Plastic Pollution

To prevent plastic waste from harming the environment:

• Minimize the use of plastic products.
• Avoid burning plastic waste.
• Segregate plastic waste for recycling.
• Dispose of plastic responsibly, avoiding littering.

Conclusion