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Climate Action

How our trash impacts the environment.

  • How Our Trash Impacts…

July 9, 2024

Over two billion metric tons of unsustainable, human-generated waste are thrown away globally every year, entering our environment and polluting every ecosystem around the world. If we continue practicing waste management strategies as we do today, the total waste generation for 2050 is projected to be around 3.78 billion metric tons , representing a 1.66 billion metric ton increase in waste since 2020. In other words, we are creating more trash than ever!

Sixty-two percent of global waste is collected in controlled municipal facilities, with the remaining 38% dumped, burned, or discarded. Of the total municipal waste that is collected, 19% is recycled and 30% ends up in sanitary landfills. Sanitary landfills essentially try to keep the trash “out” of the environment, away from water sources, for example. They also use landfill gas collection systems to keep greenhouse gasses (GHGs), created by decomposing trash, from being released directly into the atmosphere.

Trash Exacerbates Climate Change

In the United States, the primary system for controlling waste is the use of these ‘sanitary’ landfills, this type of site is expensive to operate and only accounts for 8% of the world’s landfills in total.  

The most common type of landfill, accounting for 31% globally, is an ‘open’ system. These landfill systems allow different types of waste, such as microplastics and toxic chemicals, to leak out of the trash and into the soil, groundwater, and nearby waterways.

These open landfill sites also allow greenhouse gasses, like carbon dioxide and methane, to be released directly into the atmosphere. Researchers have discovered that  20% of the total methane emissions from human-related sources are produced from open waste landfill sites. Methane is one of the largest contributors to climate change with a warming potential over 80 times greater than carbon dioxide. 

This means that even though innovative climate mitigation strategies, including the development of various climate-resilient policies , are trying to tackle the problem of climate change, our poor waste management is undermining these efforts. 

A recent Harvard study showed that greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) across seventy U.S. landfills were on average 77% higher than estimates by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This crucial lack of reliable government data is deeply concerning and may mean we are vastly underestimating how much landfills sites are contributing to GHG emissions and therefore impacting climate change. 

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Trash Is Killing Wildlife 

Increasingly we are treating our oceans as a dumping ground too and the vast majority of the trash we are dumping is made of plastics.

All kinds of marine species, from fish to mammals to birds to crustaceans, consume fragments of this plastic or solid waste as it degrades into smaller and smaller pieces. Wildlife is often unable to distinguish between food and plastic waste and in some cases they are even attracted to it by its smell. 

Researchers have found that an estimated 19 to 23 million tons of plastic waste are dumped in our oceans annually, with 1,500 different species having been found to have consumed toxic plastics and microplastics, primarily whales, sea turtles, and seabirds. For example, a krill-obligate blue whale is said to ingest 10 million pieces of microplastic every single day. Plastic pollution is even becoming the daily diet for most sea-birds, as a staggering 90% of them consume plastics and many of them get sick and die as a result. Even if these creatures don’t consume plastics in one form or another, plastic trash often injures and maims them. 

Some of this ocean plastic is entering the human food chain when we eat the crustaceans and fish that have consumed microplastics. Our waste problem is severely plaguing the health of the world’s species, including our own.

Trash Impacts Human Health

Human health is being deeply impacted by this lack of environmental accountability and awareness.  Over 1,000 chemicals used in the manufacturing of millions of different plastic products on the market today are classified as endocrine-disrupting and carcinogenic. They have been associated with some cancers, infertility, Alzheimer's, miscarriage, developmental issues and more. 

PFAS, also known as 'forever chemicals', have been in existence since the 1940s and are used on items to repel oil and water, which makes them useful in products like nonstick cookware, stain resistant clothing, and firefighting foam. When these items are dumped in landfills, it creates another pathway for these dangerous chemicals to enter the environment, where they can ultimately poison us and all other living creatures. 

Bad trash management could be the downfall of humanity, wildlife, and the health of all ecosystems. If emissions from landfills continue to increase, as projections forecast, our climate will not only be negatively impacted, but human health will be too. It’s a sobering fact that even though high-income countries only account for 16% of the world’s population, they are responsible for 34 percent, or 683 million metric tons, of the world’s trash. There’s never been a better time to find out more about plastic pollution and how you can help reduce your own waste . Think before you buy, do I really need this item or will I use it a few times and throw it in the trash? Reject fast fashion, give up single-use plastics for good and sign our plastic petition. 

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Essay Papers Writing Online

How to master the art of writing a successful cause and effect essay that captivates your readers and earns you top grades.

How to write cause and effect essay

Are you intrigued by the interconnected nature of events and phenomena? Do you aspire to unravel the hidden threads that link causes to effects? Crafting a cause and outcome essay provides an excellent platform to explore and dissect these connections, allowing you to showcase your analytical skills and express your ideas with precision and clarity.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the art of writing cause and outcome essays, equipping you with effective strategies, invaluable tips, and real-life examples that will help you master the craft. Whether you are a seasoned writer looking to enhance your skills or a beginner eager to embark on a new writing journey, this guide has got you covered.

Throughout this journey, we will navigate the intricate realm of cause and outcome relationships, examining how actions, events, and circumstances influence one another. We will explore the essential elements of a cause and outcome essay, honing in on the importance of a strong thesis statement, logical organization, and compelling evidence. By the end of this guide, you will possess the necessary tools to produce a captivating cause and outcome essay that engages your readers and leaves a lasting impact.

Tips for Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

When composing a paper that focuses on exploring the connections between actions and their consequences, there are several essential tips that can help you write a compelling cause and effect essay. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your essay is well-structured, clear, and effectively communicates your ideas.

Before diving into writing, take the time to carefully analyze and identify the causes and effects you want to discuss in your essay. Clearly define the relationship between the actions and consequences you plan to explore, ensuring that they are relevant and significant.
Structure your essay in a logical and coherent manner. Begin with an engaging introduction that introduces the topic and presents your thesis statement. Then, organize your body paragraphs in a way that allows for a clear progression of ideas and supports your thesis. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and reinforcing the relationships between causes and effects.
When explaining the causes and effects, strive to provide clear and concise explanations. Use specific examples, data, or evidence to support your claims and illustrate the connections between actions and consequences. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that can confuse your readers.
Use transitional words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow of ideas and improve the readability of your essay. Words and phrases such as “because,” “as a result,” “therefore,” and “consequently” can help signal the cause and effect relationships in your writing.
After completing the initial draft of your essay, take the time to thoroughly proofread and edit your work. Look out for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors, and make sure your writing is clear and concise. Remove any irrelevant or repetitive information that may distract your readers.

By following these tips, you can enhance your ability to write a compelling cause and effect essay. Remember to analyze the causes and effects carefully, organize your ideas effectively, provide clear explanations, use transitional words, and proofread your essay to ensure a polished final piece of writing.

Understand the Purpose and Structure

One of the most important aspects of writing a cause and effect essay is understanding its purpose and structure. By understanding these key elements, you can effectively communicate the relationship between causes and effects, and present your argument in a clear and organized manner.

In a cause and effect essay, the purpose is to analyze the causes of a specific event or phenomenon and explain the effects that result from those causes. This type of essay is often used to explore the connections between different factors and to demonstrate how one event leads to another.

To structure your cause and effect essay, consider using a chronological or sequential order. Start by introducing the topic and providing some background information on the causes you will discuss. Then, present your thesis statement, which should clearly state your main argument or claim.

In the body paragraphs, discuss each cause or group of causes in a separate paragraph. Provide detailed explanations, examples, and evidence to support your claims. Make sure to use transitional words and phrases to guide the reader through your essay and to show the logical progression of causes and effects.

Finally, in the conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis, reinforcing your overall argument. You can also discuss the broader implications of your analysis and suggest possible solutions or further research.

By understanding the purpose and structure of a cause and effect essay, you can effectively convey your ideas and arguments to your readers. This will help them follow your reasoning and see the connections between causes and effects, leading to a more convincing and impactful essay.

Choose a Topic

When embarking on the journey of writing a cause and effect essay, one of the first steps is to choose an engaging and relevant topic. The topic sets the foundation for the entire essay, determining the direction and scope of the content.

To select an effective topic, it is important to consider your interests, as well as the interests of your intended audience. Think about subjects that captivate you and inspire curiosity. Consider current events, personal experiences, or areas of study that pique your interest. By choosing a topic that you are genuinely passionate about, you will be more motivated to conduct thorough research and present compelling arguments.

Additionally, it is essential to select a topic that is relevant and meaningful. Identify an issue or phenomenon that has a clear cause-and-effect relationship, allowing you to explore the connections and consequences in depth. Look for topics that are timely and impactful, as this will ensure that your essay resonates with readers and addresses significant issues in society.

Moreover, a well-chosen topic should have enough depth and breadth to support a comprehensive analysis. Avoid selecting topics that are too broad or shallow, as this can make it challenging to delve into the causes and effects in a meaningful way. Narrow down your focus to a specific aspect or aspect of a broader topic to ensure that you have enough material to explore and analyze.

In conclusion, choosing a topic for your cause and effect essay is a critical step that will shape the entire writing process. By selecting a topic that aligns with your interests, is relevant and meaningful, and has enough depth and breadth, you will lay the foundation for a compelling and informative essay.

Conduct Thorough Research

Before diving into writing a cause and effect essay, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive research on the topic of your choice. This research phase will provide you with the necessary background information and context to develop a strong and well-supported essay.

During the research process, explore various sources such as books, academic journals, reputable websites, and credible news articles. Utilize synonyms for “research” like “investigate” or “explore” to keep your writing engaging and varied.

Avoid relying solely on a single source or biased information. Instead, strive to gather a variety of perspectives and data points that will enhance the credibility and validity of your essay.

Take notes as you research, highlighting key points, statistics, and quotes that you may want to include in your essay. Organize your findings in a clear and structured manner, making it easier to refer back to them as you begin writing.

Incorporating well-researched evidence and supporting examples into your cause and effect essay will lend credibility to your arguments, making them more persuasive and convincing. By conducting thorough research, you will be able to present a well-rounded and informed analysis of the topic you are writing about.

Create an Outline

Create an Outline

One of the crucial steps in writing any type of essay, including cause and effect essays, is creating an outline. An outline helps to organize your thoughts and ideas before you start writing, ensuring that your essay has a clear and logical structure. In this section, we will discuss the importance of creating an outline and provide some tips on how to create an effective outline for your cause and effect essay.

When creating an outline, it is important to start with a clear understanding of the purpose and main points of your essay. Begin by identifying the main cause or event that you will be discussing, as well as its effects or consequences. This will serve as the foundation for your outline, allowing you to structure your essay in a logical and coherent manner.

Once you have identified the main cause and effects, it is time to organize your ideas into a clear and logical order. One effective way to do this is by using a table. Create a table with two columns, one for the cause and one for the effect. Then, list the main causes and effects in each column, using bullet points or short phrases. This will help you see the connections between the different causes and effects, making it easier to write your essay.

In addition to listing the main causes and effects, it is also important to include supporting details and examples in your outline. These can help to strengthen your argument and provide evidence for your claims. Include specific examples, facts, and statistics that support each cause and effect, and organize them under the relevant point in your outline.

Lastly, make sure to review and revise your outline before you start writing your essay. Check for any gaps in your logic or missing information, and make any necessary adjustments. Your outline should serve as a roadmap for your essay, guiding you through the writing process and ensuring that your essay is well-structured and coherent.

In conclusion, creating an outline is an essential step in writing a cause and effect essay. It helps to organize your thoughts and ideas, ensuring that your essay has a clear and logical structure. By identifying the main cause and effects, organizing your ideas into a table, including supporting details and examples, and reviewing your outline, you can create an effective outline that will guide you through the writing process.

Develop the Body Paragraphs

Once you have identified the main causes and effects of the topic you are writing about, it is time to develop your body paragraphs. In these paragraphs, you will present specific evidence and examples to support your claims. The body of your essay should be well-structured and focused, with each paragraph addressing a single cause or effect.

Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that clearly states the main point you will be discussing. Then, provide detailed explanations and evidence to support your argument. This can include statistics, research findings, expert opinions, or personal anecdotes. Remember to use clear and concise language to convey your ideas effectively.

In order to make your writing more coherent, you can use transition words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a logical flow between paragraphs. Words like “because”, “as a result”, “therefore”, and “consequently” can be used to show cause and effect relationships.

Additionally, it is important to use paragraph unity, which means that each paragraph should focus on a single cause or effect. Avoid including unrelated information or discussing multiple causes/effects in a single paragraph, as this can confuse the reader and weaken your argument.

Furthermore, consider using examples and evidence to enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of your arguments. Concrete examples and real-life scenarios can help illustrate the cause and effect relationship and make your writing more engaging to the reader.

  • Use accurate data and precise details to back up your claims
  • Include relevant research and studies to support your arguments
  • Provide real-life examples and cases that demonstrate the cause and effect relationship

In conclusion, developing the body paragraphs of your cause and effect essay is crucial in presenting a well-structured and persuasive argument. By using topic sentences, clear explanations, transition words, and relevant evidence, you can effectively convey your ideas and convince the reader of the cause and effect relationship you are discussing.

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Learning Objectives

  • Determine the purpose and structure of cause and effect in writing
  • Understand how to write a cause and effect essay

The Purpose of Cause and Effect in Writing

It is often considered human nature to ask “why?” and “how?” We may want to know how our child got sick so we can better prevent it from happening in the future, or why our colleague received a pay raise because we want one as well. We want to know how much money we will save over the long term if we buy a hybrid car. These examples identify only a few of the relationships we think about in our lives, but each shows the importance of understanding cause and effect.

A cause is something that produces an event or condition; an effect is what results from an event or condition. The purpose of the  cause and effect essay is to determine how various phenomena relate in terms of origins and results. Sometimes the connection between cause and effect is clear, but often determining the exact relationship between the two is very difficult. For example, the following effects of a cold may be easily identifiable: a sore throat, runny nose, and a cough. But determining the cause of the sickness can be far more difficult. A number of causes are possible, and to complicate matters, these possible causes could have combined to cause the sickness. That is, more than one cause may be responsible for any given effect. Therefore, cause and effect discussions are often complicated and frequently lead to debates and arguments.

The Structure of a Cause and Effect Essay

The cause and effect essay opens with a general introduction to the topic, which then leads to a thesis that states the main cause, main effect, or various causes and effects of a condition or event.

The cause and effect essay can be organized in one of the following two primary ways:

  • Start with the cause and then talk about the effects.
  • Start with the effect and then talk about the causes.

For example, if your essay is on childhood obesity, you could start by talking about the effect of childhood obesity and then discuss the cause, or you could start the same essay by talking about the cause of childhood obesity and then move to the effect. Regardless of which structure you choose, be sure to explain each element of the essay completely. Explaining complex relationships requires the full use of evidence, such as scientific studies, expert testimony, statistics, and anecdotes.

Because cause and effect essays determine how phenomena are linked, they make frequent use of words and phrases that denote such linkage. See below Phrases of Causation for examples of such terms.

Phrases of Causation

  • as a result
  • consequently

The conclusion should wrap up the discussion and reinforce the thesis, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the relationship that was analyzed.

Self-Practice Exercise 4.8

H5P:  Cause and Effect Writing Practice

Exercise Preamble

In this exercise, we will think through the steps of a cause and effect essay. This can be tricky. We’ll start by choosing a topic. You want to pick something you know enough about to make claims about the relationships between cause and effect. For this in-class exercise, there’s no need to do external research, but remember that in a more formal assignment, you’ll want to have good sources for all your claims and to avoid speculation.

Some areas where cause and effect thinking is common include:

  • Health and nutrition

For example, you might write a cause and effect essay about whether violent video games cause children to act out, or whether universal basic income programs cause people to live more stable lives. Choose something you can argue from a position of confidence.

Set a timer and freewrite for five minutes about the topic you have chosen.

Can you identify a potential thesis statement from your freewriting? Remember: The cause and effect essay opens with a general introduction to the topic, which then leads to a thesis that states the main cause, main effect, or various causes and effects of a condition or event. In other words, you don’t need to claim the only cause or effect — we know that ideas are complex.

Organizing Your Draft

Which makes the most sense for what you are trying to argue in your thesis statement?

Using point form, sketch out the structure of your essay: how many paragraphs, what will each one focus on, and how will you support it?

Writing a Cause and Effect Essay

Choose an event or condition that you think has an interesting cause and effect relationship. Introduce your topic in an engaging way. End your introduction with a thesis that states the main cause, the main effect, or both.

Organize your essay by starting with either the cause then effect structure, or the effect then cause structure. Within each section, you should clearly explain and support the causes and effects using a full range of evidence. If you are writing about multiple causes or multiple effects, you may choose to sequence either in order of importance. In other words, order the causes from least to most important (or vice versa), or order the effects from least important to most important (or vice versa).

Use the phrases of causation when trying to forge connections between various events or conditions. This will help organize your ideas and orient the reader. End your essay with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis. See  Appendix 1: Readings: Examples of Essays  to read a sample cause and effect essay.

Key Takeaways

  • The purpose of the cause and effect essay is to determine how various phenomena are related.
  • The thesis states what the writer sees as the main cause, main effect, or various causes and effects of a condition or event.
  • The cause and effect essay can be organized in one of these two primary ways:
  • Start with the cause and then talk about the effect.
  • Start with the effect and then talk about the cause.
  • Strong evidence is particularly important in the cause and effect essay due to the complexity of determining connections between phenomena.
  • Phrases of causation are helpful to signal links between various elements in the essay.

Essay 1: Expository essay (15%)

In week 7, you will need to submit an expository essay on one of the following topics. Consider these topics as you work through the rest of this chapter and the next. You will need to choose one topic from one of the rhetorical modes below and write a 750- to 900-word essay. You will need to produce a logically organized essay with a thesis statement, well developed and logically organized paragraphs (with topic sentences), and an introduction and conclusion. You will need to support your ideas using one to three sources and include an APA reference list and citations as outlined in the JIBC APA Style Guide. You need to also demonstrate appropriate use of grammar and correct spelling. Remember, your essay should not just be a story; it should demonstrate logical organization and idea development.

Choose any one of the exercises you have completed for Self-Practice 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, or 4.9 and develop it into your Expository Essay. Consult with your instructor or your classmates if you are having a hard time deciding which activity to develop further.

You need to submit this assignment to your instructor for marking . (15%)

ENGL Resources Copyright © by Tara Horkoff. All Rights Reserved.

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Garbage Pollution: Causes, Effects and Solutions

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Table of Contents

Garbage has become a serious problem in the world today. According to a report published in Nature journal, the problem of garbage or solid waste is assuming terrible proportions today. By the end of this century (2100,), garbage will be collected at the rate of 11 million tonnes per day globally, more than three times today’s rate. It implies that the garbage-generation which amounted to 3.5 million tonnes per day in 2010 will become 6 million tonnes per day by 2025. At present, people of India produce about 62 million tonnes of solid-waste annually. Out of this, 45 million tonnes of the garbage are left untreated and disposed of by civic agencies in an unscientific manner.

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According to the report, urban India generates 109,589 tonnes of waste per day. Interestingly, the urban US produces 624,700 tonnes of garbage per day, which is the highest in the world, while the second largest happens to be urban China with 520,548 tonnes per day. India’s waste-generation will be more than 376,639 tonnes per day by 2025, especially with the population of urban India expected to increase to 538 million.

What is Garbage Pollution?

Garbage pollution arises when the waste collected in dumping sites keeps rotting, spreading odour and cause air pollution in the surrounding areas, which also creates problems at the administrative level. It is often seen that waste including inorganic material such as iron cans, paper, plastic, glass pieces, or leftover food, animal bones, vegetable peels etc are dumped in the open. In areas where people maintain milch animals, poultry or other animals, their faeces also pollute the atmosphere. Often fire breaks out in the dumps of garbage deliberately or inadvertently. Air pollution also spreads when the garbage is burnt in the open in villages, thereby posing a grave threat to health and environment.

Rivers too are victims of various types of pollution generated by industrial and household wastes. Increasing disposal of solid  waste  and sewerage, as well as discharge of industrial effluents into in the water sources is spoiling the landscape of beautiful spots. Tourism prospects are taking a beating.

What is the Problem with Garbage?

In olden times, garbage generally comprised only organic waste which went into the ground, but the proportion of chemicals in the waste is increasing with the hectic pace of modern development. In countries like India, things used earlier as bags were not harmful. Earlier the pottery was used for liquid substances, and jute bag was used to carry goods. Now, the plastic has changed the situation and a problem has arisen with it because the plastic never degrades. Its recycling is possible, but there is no proper system to deposit it.

In our country, the cities are getting reduced to dumping grounds of waste. Garbage is present everywhere in some form or the other whether there is a village or a city, a temple or a mosque. This problem has been increasing since the last nearly three decades, leading to health issues and degradation of environment. Today we are victims of many types of waste including domestic, agricultural and industrial waste.  Every year tonnes of waste or garbage are produced in the country, and only one percent of it is recycled. The rest either accumulates in the fields or in the streets and in the end, during the rainy season; it reaches the oceans through rivers.

There are many reasons for the production of garbage. One reason for this is growing urbanization and prosperity. The more financially strong is the country or the city, the more garbage it will produce. It can also be seen by linking poverty and prosperity, competence and inefficiency. This means where the aspiration for the amenities are high in populations, there will also be increase in the amount of waste. Today, China and India are the prominent examples of this in the world. Both are taking strides in economic development, but in the process, they are also producing piles of garbage. Other reasons for this include changing lifestyle, lack of waste-management and options, and also the big question of the ethics that is fast eroding. We assume that it is our compulsion to produce garbage and its disposal is the work of the government. Perhaps this is where we are making the biggest mistake.

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How does Garbage Contribute to Air Pollution?

Today, land, water and air have become polluted. Garbage is dumped in open spaces. Large factories emit a lot of smoke. Due to dust particles in the smoke, air becomes contaminated. In addition to the spread of foul odour, germs also breed in rotting trash leading to various diseases. Mosquitoes, flies and mice find a fertile breeding ground in mounds of waste. Garbage, from the households and the industrial wastes, fall into the rivers. This makes the water of the rivers polluted. Thus, increasing garbage in the home, outside or in water sources has aggravated the problem of air pollution.

How does the Burning of Garbage Affect the Environment?

Micro particles or particulate matter are those toxic particles whose size is so small that they can enter our body through respiration and can damage the lungs in particular. In India and China, every kind of garbage including plastic bottles, electronic goods, is burnt. According to scientists, this is the main cause of air pollution.

The smoke from the burning garbage not only poisons the air, it also increases the spread of diseases. Recent research has provided information about emission of toxic gases like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide due to the burning of waste. At the same time, it has been pointed out that the particles present in the air are also responsible for many types of diseases. According to researcher Rd. Christine Wiedinmyer, the Associate Director for Science at the University of Colorado, while doing the research, she realized that we have very little information about waste management and garbage-burning. The need is to deeply study the different types of toxins emanated out of such activities.

Wiedinmyer has for the first time prepared a report in which all the countries have been told about the quality of air. This report will help governments to modify their environmental policies. Most of the measures related to health have been made in accordance with the microscopic particles present in the air, in which only their size is given attention, not what they are made of. The report focuses on the different types of microscopic particles that have different effects on both health and environment.

How can we Stop or Control Garbage Pollution?

Waste is the main reason for environmental pollution in both developed and developing countries. The increasing intensity of development is becoming increasingly challenging. The environment becomes messy due to improper disposal of garbage. But using modern technology, many developed countries have not only reduced the pollution by way of waste management but also adopted it as the main source of energy. It is possible to reuse many things thrown in the garbage. The waste of resources can be prevented by their recycling and the environment can be conserved.

In the context of India, municipality facility is not available in rural areas. Therefore, the following measures can be taken for disposal of waste at a small scale:

  • Vermiculture

(i) Composting: This is the process by which domestic waste such as grass, leaves, leftover food, cow dung etc are used to make compost. A pot is dug up to prepare manure out of dung and garbage. The size of the pit corresponds to the amount of garbage and the available space. Typically, a small rural family can dug up 1 meter long and 1 meter wide and 0.8 meters deep pit. The upper part of the pit should be kept one and a half or two feet high from the ground level. Doing this will not cause rain water to seep into it.

Village households can put domestic farming garbage and dung into the pit. This way, manure is ready in about six months. This organic manure should be removed from the pit and covered with soil. It can then be used for cultivation.

Advantages of composting:

  • The extravagant grass seeds found in the fields are destroyed due to heat.
  • It prevents pollution caused by rotting of garbage.
  • Good manure is prepared from the waste which is helpful in increasing the yield of the field.

(ii) Vermiculture: This is a process of decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms under controlled conditions. In this, manure is prepared by decomposition of organic waste such as vegetable peels, leaves, grass, crop residues, animal wastes, and food garbage etc set in motion by earthworms. Under this method, a layer of organic waste material is laid in a wooden box or soil pit and some earthworms are released over it. Garbage is put on top of it and water is sprayed to maintain wetting. After some time, earthworms consume large quantities of  organic  litter or  waste and make compost, a rich source of organic matter that plays an important role in sustaining soil fertility.

In rural areas, dung, domestic waste and agricultural waste are not fully utilized. It is, therefore, necessary that the villagers should be informed about the production of fertilizer from the waste to prevent pollution in rural areas. Altogether, waste is put to the best use.

Garbage Disposal in Urban Areas:

The proper arrangement for disposal of garbage in cities is done by municipalities. But citizens need to stay vigilant to ensure that the work goes on smoothly, and the waste is transported from a particular place to the municipal collection centre from where its proper disposal can be done. If the waste management is done by adopting modern techniques, the environment can be protected from pollution.

Need for Scientific Waste Management

For the proper management of garbage, we have to make preparations to deal with this problem in four phases. As a first step, we should try to reduce the amount of waste generated per person. In fact, a little reduction in this quantity would prove to be a very big positive move. The second step should be recycling and reuse. By recycling one tonne of iron, not only the need for iron mining is reduced, it also avoids the emission of one tonne of carbon dioxide. In the third phase, we should produce bio gas and organic manure from this biological waste that remains after recycling and re-use. Metals, batteries, bulbs, should be collected separately. The remaining inflammable waste should be used as a fuel to make electricity, thereby saving fossil fuels and reducing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted in the atmosphere.

In this case, we can learn a lot from Sweden. Sweden re-uses and recycles 47 percent of the waste generated in its regions, and uses 50 percent of the waste as a fuel for energy production. Only 3% of the unproductive waste is needed to be dumped. There, care is also taken to avoid the leak of poisonous substances from dumping sites. There is a ban on putting organic and inflammable waste at dumping sites.

In Sweden, the responsibilities of gathering and treating garbage are distributed in such a way that there is no scope for excuse. This work is divided among waste-producing industries, business houses, municipalities, and private enterprises. Every task is separately delegated such as collection of the garbage, its transportation to the treatment centres, and its scientific treatment. It is the responsibility of municipalities to collect household waste.  The companies that produce dangerous waste such as batteries, mirrors, bulbs, electronic waste need to adopt proper management and treatment of waste.

Underground tanks have been built there for municipal waste, which have been linked with large tubes; the last tip of this network goes up to the loading point. Garbage is pushed from the vacuum pressure to the loading point where the slurry is put in vehicles and the garbage is transported to the treatment centres.

A network of different types of treatment centres has been established. It is estimated that Sweden produced 5,67,630 MW of power in 2013, for which 14,74,190 tonnes of domestic organic waste was treated. Bio gas is used as a fuel for vehicles. Electricity is made by burning the remaining inflammable waste in the insinuators; its technique is very advanced, which leads to very little gas emissions. Sweden is the most advanced country to produce electricity from waste. It creates three megawatts of energy from one tonne of waste.

Sweden, in 2013, imported 8,31,400 tonnes of garbage from other countries in Europe to help them in dealing with the problem of waste. After burning the garbage in the incinerators, the residual ashes are planted in construction work in dumping sites. The fuel gas, resulting from the burning  of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, is also treated to remove pollutants.

The above example shows that when the garbage becomes a means of income, the arrangements for its treatment are also strengthened. By spending on the salary of the workers and the sanitation workers engaged in the treatment system, their conditions can be further improved. The burden on the public exchequer decreases and employment opportunities are also born. If organized well, this system has the capacity to move forward with its own strength. As a society, we have to rise above negligence of waste and leave the habit of throwing waste here and there.

This problem arises when we pass on its solution to the government and consequently the solution becomes difficult. This change will have to come into the overall society’s thinking. With this, we will be able to take serious and proactive steps towards the disposal of garbage. We need to remember that the garbage lying in the wrong place poses a grave problem but the treated garbage in proper form is also a useful resource.

The time has come when we should re-think over our lifestyle. Whatever was our population up to three decades ago, the amount of the garbage generated was not so big, because our requirements were controlled. Today we have none of the activities today which does not produce garbage. What to talk of the cities, even villages which were known for their decency, peace and cleanliness have come under the sway of garbage. Earlier, all the requirements of the villages were managed locally. Now urbanization has made inroads in the rural areas too. Nylon has replaced the rope used in the making of cots. Now the earthen pitchers are starting to disappear and replaced by plastic containers. Like cities, mobile, motorcycle and other modern products have also taken roots in villages. So, there is no difference in the amount of garbage in the cities and villages. We have learned everything from the western countries, but we are not able to learn how conscious people are there with regard to cleanliness, which is maintained not simply as adherence to any rule or law, but as part of moral duty and social obligation there. The people abroad consider streets and other public places outside the home as part of their living space. But we think that our responsibility is simply to clean up our house. Accordingly, we need to inculcate change in our attitude towards waste or garbage.

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September 2, 2014

Burning Trash Bad for Humans and Global Warming

Smoldering garbage turns out to be a significant source of the greenhouse gases causing climate change

By Andrea Thompson & Climate Central

When atmospheric scientist Christine Wiedinmyer first went to Ghana in 2011 to investigate air pollution produced by burning different materials — from crop stubble to coal used in stoves — she noticed an unexpected potential source: burning piles of trash.

Like most residents of developed nations who hadn’t traveled broadly in the developing world, the sight of smoldering rubbish piles, which contain anything from food waste to plastics to electronics, came as a surprise to Wiedinmyer, who works at the National Center for Atmospheric Research  in Boulder, Colo.

“It’s just not something that I’ve been exposed to,” she told Climate Central. In the U.S., “we have waste management. We have people who pick up trash and take it away.”

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Ghana, Nepal, Mexico and other developing countries often lack the tax bases and infrastructure needed to put such systems into place. So residents and governments often burn piles of their trash in the open; removing the garbage from the land but transferring it to the skies. Some 40 percent of the world’s waste may be dealt with in this way.

Wiedinmyer wondered if this burning waste could be an underappreciated source of air pollutants, from greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide to tiny particles and toxic chemicals that can harm human lungs.

“I was curious to see how big that source was,” she said.

Wiedinmyer set out to produce the first global estimates of burn-related pollution. The result, detailed in July in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, suggests that burning trash isn’t just bad for human health -- it could pump more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than had been realized.

‘First Best Guess’ Wiedinmyer pored through existing data and inventories and consulted one of the few people already investigating the phenomenon, Bob Yokelson, an atmospheric chemist at the University of Montana in Missoula, who had traveled widely to developing areas and was familiar with the trash burning around homes and villages.

“If you do research or travel in developing worlds, you do see garbage burning in a lot of places,” he told Climate Central. Working in Indonesia in the 1990s, he said, there was an old man who would come around and gather everyone’s trash, then burn it at the end of the street.

Yokelson, who is another author of the recent paper, had made some measurements in Mexico of what sort of pollutants were being emitted by trash burning. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has catalogued emissions from trash burning in the rural areas of the U.S. But Wiedinmyer found that, on a global scale, “there wasn’t kind of a consistent story.”

To find that story took a lot of digging around and some educated guesswork. Along with data from the few studies like Yokelson’s, Wiedinmyer used guidelines for calculating trash burning emissions produced by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change to determine how much waste was being generated and burned, what exactly was in that waste, and what types of chemicals were likely generated. What she came up with was, as the study describes it, “the first comprehensive and consistent estimates of the global emissions of greenhouse gases, particulate matter, reactive trace gases, and toxic compounds from open waste burning.”

Or, as Wiedinmyer puts it, “it was my first best guess.”

What’s in the Emissions What she found was that some 1.1 billion tons of waste, more than 40 percent of the world’s garbage, is burned in open piles, contributing more emissions than is shown in regional and global inventories.

An estimated 40 to 50 percent of the garbage is made up of carbon by mass, which means that carbon dioxide is the major gas emitted by trash burning. Those emissions are dwarfed by others sources on the global scale, such as cars and power plants, amounting to just 5 percent of total global carbon dioxide emissions. But the carbon dioxide that comes from trash burning can be a significant source in some countries and regions, and it is one not reflected in the official greenhouse gas inventories for those places.

The more interesting and concerning story to Wiedinmyer are the other pollutants, which accounted for far bigger percentages of global emissions. For example, as much as 29 percent of global anthropogenic emissions of small particulate matter  (tiny solid particles and liquid droplets from dust to metals  that can penetrate deep into the lungs) come from trash fires, she estimates. About 10 percent of mercury emissions come from open burning, as well as 40 percent of  polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons  (PAHs). Such pollution can cause lung and neurological diseases, and have been linked to heart attacks and some cancers.

“I was really surprised at the magnitude” of some of these pollutants coming from trash burning, Wiedinmyer said.

Just a Starting Point Of course, the work is just a starting point, Wiedinmyer and Yokelson said. It shows that the problem of pollution from trash burning is big enough that it warrants further study to try and narrow down the large uncertainties inherent in the study’s estimates.

“Can we do better? Can we do more to constrain it?” Wiedinmyer said.

More measurements of the kind Yokelson has made are among the biggest holes needed to be filled to get more fine-tuned numbers.

So, too, is a better understanding of what’s in the trash in different regions, since emissions from organic matter like food are very different than those from plastics. “That’s one of the big unknowns,” Wiedinmyer said. “What’s in the trash?”Wiedinmyer also wants to put her estimates into models of climate and air movement and see if they match up with current air observations. She wants to figure out which populations the pollution might be affecting, and where it is interacting with other pollution sources.

Overall, it’s an issue “that I think should get more attention,” Wiedinmyer said.

Eri Saikawa, who studies air pollution and its health impacts at Emory University , and wasn’t involved in the new study, plans to use Wiedinmyer’s data in a model to see how it matches observations in China and Southeast Asia, and to see how trash burning might be contributing to the substantial amounts of air pollution there.

“What they’re interested in is where they can reduce emissions,” Saikawa said of policymakers she has met with in China. Currently the focus has been on power plants and cars — trash burning hasn’t been part of the conversation.

Reducing emissions from trash burning isn’t an easy prospect in many areas, though. In Nepal, where Yokelson plans to do further work this year and next, the government is well aware of the problem, but it can’t afford the kind of highly efficient incinerators  that would get rid of much of the emissions from trash.

“It’s expensive to get rid of garbage cleanly,” Yokelson said.

And it’s not clear how much of an effect reducing this source of pollution would have in different areas.

But, “you need to make a small step to make a big step,” Saikawa said. “This kind of study is very important to figure out what needs” to be done.

You May Also Like: Climate Change Ups Odds of a Southwest Megadrought See How This Summer's Temperatures Stack Up Coal Plants Lock in 300 Billion Tons of CO2 Emissions Crowdsourced Photos Provide Drought Snapshots A Tale of Two Cities: Miami, New York and Life on the Edge

This article is reproduced with permission from  Climate Central . The article was first published on September 2, 2014.

Essay on Waste Management for Students and Teacher

500+ essay on waste management.

Essay on Waste Management -Waste management is essential in today’s society. Due to an increase in population, the generation of waste is getting doubled day by day. Moreover, the increase in waste is affecting the lives of many people.

Essay on Waste Management

For instance, people living in slums are very close to the waste disposal area. Therefore there are prone to various diseases. Hence, putting their lives in danger. In order to maintain a healthy life, proper hygiene and sanitation are necessary. Consequently, it is only possible with proper waste management .

The Meaning of Waste Management

Waste management is the managing of waste by disposal and recycling of it. Moreover, waste management needs proper techniques keeping in mind the environmental situations. For instance, there are various methods and techniques by which the waste is disposed of. Some of them are Landfills, Recycling , Composting, etc. Furthermore, these methods are much useful in disposing of the waste without causing any harm to the environment.

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Methods for Waste Management

Recycling – Above all the most important method is the recycling of waste. This method does not need any resources. Therefore this is much useful in the management of waste . Recycling is the reusing of things that are scrapped of. Moreover, recycling is further converting waste into useful resources.

cause and effect essay about garbage

Landfills – Landfills is the most common method for waste management. The garbage gets buried in large pits in the ground and then covered by the layer of mud. As a result, the garbage gets decomposed inside the pits over the years. In conclusion, in this method elimination of the odor and area taken by the waste takes place.

Composting – Composting is the converting of organic waste into fertilizers. This method increases the fertility of the soil. As a result, it is helpful in more growth in plants. Furthermore it the useful conversion of waste management that is benefiting the environment.

Advantages of Waste Management

There are various advantages of waste management. Some of them are below:

Decrease bad odor – Waste produces a lot of bad odor which is harmful to the environment. Moreover, Bad odor is responsible for various diseases in children. As a result, it hampers their growth. So waste management eliminates all these problems in an efficient way.

Reduces pollution – Waste is the major cause of environmental degradation. For instance, the waste from industries and households pollute our rivers. Therefore waste management is essential. So that the environment may not get polluted. Furthermore, it increases the hygiene of the city so that people may get a better environment to live in.

Reduces the production of waste -Recycling of the products helps in reducing waste. Furthermore, it generates new products which are again useful. Moreover, recycling reduces the use of new products. So the companies will decrease their production rate.

It generates employment – The waste management system needs workers. These workers can do various jobs from collecting to the disposing of waste. Therefore it creates opportunities for the people that do not have any job. Furthermore, this will help them in contributing to society.

Produces Energy – Many waste products can be further used to produce energy. For instance, some products can generate heat by burning. Furthermore, some organic products are useful in fertilizers. Therefore it can increase the fertility of the soil.

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cause and effect essay about garbage

Writing Academic Essays: Tips and Support: Cause and Effect Essay

  • Informative Process Analysis
  • Cause and Effect Essay
  • Compare and Contrast Essay
  • Argumentative Essay
  • Newspapers, Databases & Articles
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Cause & Effect Essay

  • What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

One essay option for this assignment: Speculating About Causes

Cause and Effect

Write a paper discussing what you think may be the cause or causes of an important problem or trend (not an event or a fad).

  • Explaining to an audience of your choice WHY it has occurred.
  • Describe and identify your subject, demonstrate its existence with concrete evidence if necessary, and speculate about the possible causes of it.
  • Your purpose is to convince your readers that your proposed causes are the major ones and that they are plausible. 
  • Example: Red Tide in the Gulf Coast is caused by cruise ships dumping garbage and waste. This has led to ________. (now convince your audience

Write about  something that you are interested in and write out a table of causes and effects to see what you know about it. 

  • List all the possible causes and select the most promising ones. 
  • Do some research if you need more information. 
  • Arrange your ideas about the causes you have selected in  a way that is most likely to convince your audience.

Keep in Mind

While you do not have to use scientific evidence, you do need to use facts to persuade your audience.

The basic parts of this paper are: (a) an explanation of the phenomenon/trend in the introduction for context; (b) a presentation of two to three proposed causes with evidence for each; (c) a consideration of readers' objections, questions, or reservations to such causes; and (d) a consideration of alternative causes if possible in the conclusion.

Begin your essay by demonstrating the existence of the phenomenon or trend with evidence. If you think UFOs are causing power outages in California, you will need evidence to convince your audience that you are being truthful. 

While arguing for your proposed causes, you do not have to prove that your explanations are scientifically true, but you must convince the readers that they are plausible or believable . To achieve this, you must present evidence in support of each proposed cause and organize your causal arguments in a logical order that will be easy for your readers to follow.  Remember our in class discussion of maps vs. tours of your houses in relation to Writer Based Prose.  You want to give your audience a map of the essay first in your introduction and thesis statement. 

You can present some obvious causes to establish common ground with your readers as King did in his essay.  However like King, in order to be successful in speculating about the causes, you have to be creative enough to come up with at least one not-so-obvious or “hidden” cause so as to show that you have the ability to make your readers look at the phenomenon or trend in a new way, and to challenge them to think more deeply and to experience explanations beyond the obvious and familiar ones.

Take your readers’ values and beliefs into account, deal with some possible alternative causes, and anticipate any possible objections to and questions about your proposed causes by either accommodating or refuting them as you see fit. In other words, include a counterargument!

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Recycling — The Impact of Recycling on Sustainability and Waste Reduction

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The Impact of Recycling on Sustainability and Waste Reduction

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Published: Sep 12, 2023

Words: 1070 | Pages: 2 | 6 min read

Table of contents

Waste reduction and conservation of natural resources, pollution reduction, innovative recycling practices, application across different contexts, 1. using recycled materials, 2. reducing packaging waste, 3. using renewable energy, public policy.

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cause and effect essay about garbage

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Teach students checking vs. savings accounts!

137 Intriguing Cause & Effect Essay Topics for Students

Teach critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion.

What are some reasons a teacher may ban cell phones in class?

Cause-and-effect essays aren’t just a way to help students strengthen their writing skills. They’ll also learn critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion. In addition, they teach students to demonstrate how one thing directly influences another. Coming up with engaging cause-and-effect essay topics can be challenging, but we have you covered. This list of ideas includes a variety of topics that range from social and cultural movements to mental health and the environment.

Science and Environment Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Describe the effect of urbanization on the environment.
  • What is the impact of air pollution on health?
  • What are the causes and consequences of plastics on marine life?
  • What is the impact of rising sea temperatures on fish and marine life?
  • Describe the impact of human behavior on global warming.

Describe the impact of human behavior on global warming. Cause and effect essay

  • What is the effect of social media on environmentalism?
  • What causes volcanic eruptions?
  • What causes trees to die?
  • What are the effects of gravity?
  • Why are plants green?
  • Why do trees shed their leaves?
  • What causes a species to become endangered?
  • What are some of the causes of animals losing their habitats?
  • Describe the effect of overpopulation on the environment.
  • What are the effects of famine on human population?
  • What are the causes and effects of Antarctica floods?
  • What are the effects of pollution on the ocean?
  • What effect do cars have on the environment?
  • Why is it important to manage wildfires?
  • What has been the impact of DNA on crime scene processing?

What has been the impact of DNA on crime scene processing?

  • What are the impacts of deforestation in Brazil?
  • What are the effects of GMO foods on human health?
  • What are the impacts of immunizations on human health?

Technology and Social Media Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of social media on adolescent development?
  • How does technology affect productivity?
  • What are the effects of video games on childhood development?
  • How do cell phones affect human relationships?
  • What are some reasons a teacher might ban cell phones from class?

What are some reasons a teacher might ban cell phones from class? Cause and effect essay

  • What effects do cell phones have on sleep?
  • What effects did the invention of the Internet have on technology?
  • What were the origins of cyberbullying?
  • What are the effects of tablet use on small children?
  • How has online dating changed relationships?
  • What makes some people less likely to use social media?
  • What are the effects of social media on privacy?
  • How does the rise of TikTok affect Facebook and Instagram?
  • In what ways could social media lead to extremism?
  • What is the impact of social media on the increasing popularity of plastic surgery and other enhancements?

What is the impact of social media on the increasing popularity of plastic surgery and other enhancements?

  • What are some of the benefits of owning a smartphone and what are some of the drawbacks?
  • What has been the impact of online shopping on brick-and-mortar stores?
  • What has been the impact of smartphones on marriages and relationships?
  • What are the causes and effects of texting while driving?
  • What has the rise of “influencers” meant for Hollywood?
  • In what ways have photo filters influenced young people’s self-esteem?

Culture and Social Issues Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are some of the reasons for substance abuse in young people?
  • What are some of the effects of bullying?
  • How does economic status affect the quality of health care?
  • What are some of the causes of homelessness?
  • Explain the effects of ignorance on discrimination.
  • What are the impacts of death sentences on social justice?

What are the impacts of death sentences on social justice? Cause and effect essay

  • How does financial success affect societal privilege?
  • What effects does growing up poor have on children?
  • In what ways does religion influence society?
  • What are the effects of immigration on a host country?
  • What are the effects of ageism on job opportunities?
  • What is the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in TV and movies?
  • What are the effects of school shootings on politics?
  • How do school uniforms affect students?
  • What are the impacts of high student debt?
  • What are the impacts of body shaming on people?
  • What were the lasting impacts of the AIDS epidemic on society?

What were the lasting impacts of the AIDS epidemic on society? cause and effect essay

  • What impact does banning abortion have in the United States?
  • What has been the impact of marriage equality in the United States?
  • What are the causes and effects of noise pollution?
  • What are the causes and effects of inflation on the economy?
  • What are the effects of TV shows on our behavior?

Sports Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Examine the effects of exercise on mental health.
  • What led to baseball being an iconic American sport?
  • What drives people to participate in extreme sports?
  • In what ways did globalization affect modern sports?
  • What were the effects of doping on amateur and professional sports?
  • Select a sport and write about the historical factors that led to the popularization of that sport.

cause and effect essay about garbage

  • Describe the ways in which youth sports influence a child’s development.
  • What were the driving forces behind the first Olympics?
  • How can team sports help develop social skills?
  • How have e-sports changed the sporting landscape?
  • In what ways do race biases influence sports?

In what ways do race biases influence sports.

  • What are the effects of regular workouts on immunity?
  • How does participating in sports affect leadership skills?
  • In what ways can sports lead to character development?
  • What effect does famous athletes’ social commentary have on their fans?

History Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of the war in Syria on the United States?
  • What have been the lasting effects of the Civil Rights Movement?
  • What were the causes and effects of the attack on Pearl Harbor?
  • What led up to the Berlin Wall being torn down and what effects did that have?

What led up to the Berlin Wall being torn down and what effects did that have? Cause and effect essay

  • What lasting impact did 9/11 have on modern American society?
  • What were the causes of the Salem Witch Trials?
  • What was the cultural impact of the Spanish-American War?
  • How has globalization led to modern-day slavery?
  • What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
  • What were the impacts of the Great Depression on women’s employment?
  • How did cartels come into existence? What effect have they had on the United States and Mexico?
  • What were the causes and effects of the Women’s Liberation Movement?
  • Give an example of colonialism in history and name the resulting impact to the affected society.

Give an example of colonialism in history and name the resulting impact to the affected society.

  • What led to the rise of ISIS and what has the impact been on international security?
  • What factors led to the Titanic’s sinking?
  • What were the causes and effects of the Vietnam War?
  • Choose an American president. What led him to become president and what were the effects of his presidency?

Mental Health Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • How can stress affect the immune system?
  • How does social anxiety affect young people?
  • How can high academic expectations lead to depression?
  • What are the effects of divorce on young people?
  • How does service in the armed forces lead to post-traumatic stress disorder?

How does service in the armed forces lead to post-traumatic stress disorder? Cause and effect essay topic

  • What are the effects of mindfulness on mental health?
  • Describe the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted mental health.
  • How does childhood trauma impact childhood development?
  • What impact does witnessing violence have on mental health?
  • What is behind increasingly high levels of anxiety in modern American society?

What is behind increasingly high levels of anxiety in modern American society? cause and effect essay topic

  • What are the causes and effects of panic attacks?
  • What are the causes and consequences of high stress in the workplace?
  • What are some of the causes of insomnia and in what ways does it affect mental health?
  • What is the impact of staying home for an extended period of time?

Current Events Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Choose a local public education campaign. What are the effects of that campaign?
  • What are the causes and effects of migration?
  • What are the causes and effects of terrorist attacks?

What are the causes and effects of terrorist attacks?

  • What are the effects of legalizing genetic engineering research?
  • How do low voting rates impact elections and government?
  • What is the effect of raising the minimum wage?
  • What are the effects of globalization on society?
  • How does gerrymandering affect election outcomes?
  • What are the causes and effects of police brutality?
  • What are the causes and effects of political polarization?

What are the causes and effects of political polarization?

  • What are the causes and effects of fake news?
  • What are the effects of global war on citizens?
  • What is the effect of international aid on poverty or health?
  • Why do some countries have nuclear weapons, and what does this mean for other countries?

Education Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of teacher quality on student success?
  • What are the causes and effects of student loan debt?
  • What are the causes and effects of low graduation rates?

What are the causes and effects of low graduation rates?

  • What are the effects of assigning homework?
  • What are the causes and effects of school funding disparities?
  • What are the causes and effects of the digital divide in education?
  • What is the effect of AI on education?
  • What are the causes and effects of student burnout?
  • Should students be required to study a foreign language in school, and what are the effects of learning a foreign language?

Should students be required to study a foreign language in school, and what are the effects of learning a foreign language?

  • What effect has the COVID pandemic had on education?
  • What are the effects of same-sex classrooms or schools?

What are your best cause-and-effect essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out our list of interesting persuasive essay topics for kids and teens..

Coming up with cause and effect essay topics can be challenging, but we have you covered. Check out our list with a variety of topics.

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Garbage Pollution Essay Sample

Pollution is a major problem in the world. One of the major sources of pollution in our garbage dumps. Garbage dumps are not just an eyesore, but they also create harmful gases that pollute the environment and harm people who live nearby. The sample below will outline some ways to reduce garbage pollution by recycling more often and throwing less away.

Essay Sample On Garbage Pollution

  • Thesis Statement – Garbage Pollution Essay
  • Introduction – Garbage Pollution Essay
  • Main Body – Garbage Pollution Essay
  • Conclusion – Garbage Pollution Essay
Thesis Statement – Garbage Pollution Essay The pollution of garbage is a problem that affects many people. However, there are ways to combat this issue and help the environment at the same time. Introduction – Garbage Pollution Essay Garbage pollution is one of the largest sources of our global economic loss, and it’s a problem that needs to be addressed. The United States alone spends around $11 billion annually on waste management. Globally, this figure rises to roughly $200 billion. This doesn’t even take into account the environmental costs in terms of air quality, water contamination, ecosystem disruption, and biodiversity loss. With the ever-escalating cost in time and money spent managing garbage worldwide, it’s high time we start exploring alternatives before things get out of hand! Get Non-Plagiarized Custom Essay on Garbage Pollution in USA Order Now Main Body – Garbage Pollution Essay The high level of pollution in every sphere cannot hide the problem of garbage pollution in the world in modern times. If we move around our head there are thousands of instances where garbage pollution is becoming the cause of life taking diseases. The initiative taken so far by the national and international conventions to control this pollution proves out to be on the wane. This is because there is no solid solution given so far to resolve this issue effectively. If we burn these heaps of garbage they will give rise to air pollution causing smog and different respiratory diseases as well. That is why no such ideas seem to be in the light which can be applied to control this pollution so far. The negative consequences of garbage pollution can be seen in the form of big heaps of garbage which suddenly fall causing the death of several people. Other results can be considered in the reduction of air quality, spreading of the diseases like dengue as mosquitoes becomes very prominent in such areas where no hygiene is maintained. The water of the drinking water sources is also contaminated when rain puts this garbage through its flow in the rivers and lakes. So we cannot say that garbage pollution is affecting our life in one or two ways but we are getting in danger from everywhere. Finding genuine and effective solutions to deal with the ill consequences of Garbage pollution is very important as the rising dumps are indicating towards the worst condition in the future time. If you are thinking of recycling and reusing things more and more then it could be possible to a certain limit because we cannot recycle and reuse everything and this is sure that the above solution is not much effective to cater such a big issue in real grounds. Although it can impart its role in the decrease of its ratio it is not able to mitigate the issue completely. Some intellectual people suggest keeping the degradable and nonbiodegradable substances separately so that biodegradable things can be utilized as manure in the farms and this will also be helpful to suppress the problem to a certain amount apart from recycling and reuse. As far as the reduction of the problem is concerned we can consider these tips and ideas best and useful as well. But to find the ultimate and best solution which can finish off the entire problem by eradicating its roots is not possible from these minor initiatives. Something big and new needs to be given by the researchers who are active in the research field to save the environment from the pollution of a different type. Some people are giving solutions like stop using polythene bags and materials for packaging and supplying things. These bags should be replaced by something which can be degradable by the microorganisms. For example, bags made up of eco-friendly material can be subjected to the use of packaging. But the serious issue that is confronted to adopt this idea is that liquid material is hard to pack in these types of bags and they easily tear out and are not solid like that of polythene. But it does not mean that we cannot use this idea at all. There are many things which can be packed easily in the paper bags as well and using such bags can lower the pollution to a great amount. This is how a new idea can also be subjected to the reduction of pollution. If we measure the success rate of controlling pollution caused by the garbage dumps in the world by applying the above techniques mentioned here like re-cycling, reusing, and separating the degradable and nondegradable material effective changes can be considered. It is not new in the idea to use these things for reducing the garbage pollution but the main reason why we are not getting success to control it even after so much of time it our poor actions to take these initiatives and follow them. Until or unless we are not able to control our action towards spreading pollution nothing can be done to deal with this serious issue. Especially developing and undeveloped countries are suffering from the ill consequence of garbage pollution to a high level than the developed ones. So, it is very crucial to give attention to this problem so that we can effectively deal with it. Any type of problem encountered by the students of the college in writing their essay on garbage pollution can be solved by taking the essay writing services for college or school. Students Assignment Help is giving high-quality essays written on various topics to the students who belong to their respective fields. You can ask the essay writers anytime to write your essay on garbage pollution and become free from the fear of getting a low score in your essay writing assignments. You do not have to wait for long hours to avail of this service on time as experts are always there to serve the students in the form of ghostwriters. Essay Editing And Proofreading services are also easily provided to the college and master students on various topics apart from the one mentioned here. Buy Customized Essay on Garbage Pollution At Cheapest Price Order Now Conclusion – Garbage Pollution Essay The average American produces about 220 lbs of garbage each year. This is equivalent to 4 bags of trash per day, which equates to 1444 pounds per year for the typical family. These numbers are staggering and it can be difficult to comprehend just how much impact this has on our environment until you do the math. The good news is that there are simple steps we can take at home and in school to reduce our impact on global warming. Hire USA Experts for Garbage Pollution Essay Order Now

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We hope we’ve helped you understand why garbage pollution is such a serious issue and what can be done about it in your community.

If you are looking for free essay samples  to solve your queries related to the outline and structure of the essay then here is an example essay written by the Students Assignment Help Experts . You can go through the essay anytime to have an idea about what are the basics of writing an essay in its format and other various things like how to frame the outline of an essay.

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Cause And Effect Essay Guide

Cause And Effect Essay Examples

Caleb S.

Best Cause and Effect Essay Examples To Get Inspiration + Simple Tips

cause and effect essay examples

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How To Write A Cause and Effect Essay - Outline & Examples

230+ Cause and Effect Essay Topics to Boost Your Academic Writing

How to Create a Cause and Effect Outline - An Easy Guide

You need to write a cause and effect essay for your assignment. Well, where should you start?

Establishing a relationship between causes and effects is no simple task. You need to ensure logical connections between variables with credible evidence.

However, don't get overwhelmed by the sound of it. You can start by reading some great cause and effect essay examples. 

In this blog, you can read cause and effect essays to get inspiration and learn how to write them. With these resources, you'll be able to start writing an awesome cause and effect paper.

Let’s dive in!

Arrow Down

  • 1. What is a Cause and Effect Essay?
  • 2. Cause and Effect Essay Examples for Students
  • 3. Free Cause and Effect Essay Samples
  • 4. Cause and Effect Essay Topics
  • 5. Tips For Writing a Good Cause and Effect Essay

What is a Cause and Effect Essay?

A cause and effect essay explores why things happen (causes) and what happens as a result (effects). This type of essay aims to uncover the connections between events, actions, or phenomena. It helps readers understand the reasons behind certain outcomes.

In a cause and effect essay, you typically:

  • Identify the Cause: Explain the event or action that initiates a chain of events. This is the "cause."
  • Discuss the Effect: Describe the consequences or outcomes resulting from the cause.
  • Analyze the Relationship: Clarify how the cause leads to the effect, showing the cause-and-effect link.

Cause and effect essays are common in various academic disciplines. For instance, studies in sciences, history, and the social sciences rely on essential cause and effect questions. For instance, "what are the effects of climate change?", or "what are the causes of poverty?"

Now that you know what a cause and effect is, let’s read some examples.

Cause and Effect Essay Examples for Students

Here is an example of a well-written cause and effect essay on social media. Let’s analyze it in parts to learn why it is good and how you can write an effective essay yourself. 

Do you know that the average person now spends over two hours a day on social media platforms? Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Whether it's Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, these platforms have revolutionized the way we connect, communicate, and share our experiences with the world. However, while they offer many advantages, the excessive use of social media can have detrimental effects on our mental health. In this essay, we will explore the causes and effects of this relationship, shedding light on the profound influence social media has on our well-being.

The essay begins with a compelling hook that grabs the reader's attention. It presents a brief overview of the topic clearly and concisely. The introduction covers the issue and ends with a strong thesis statement , stating the essay's main argument – that excessive use of social media can negatively impact mental health.

The rise of social media has led to an unprecedented increase in screen time. According to recent statistics, the average person spends over two hours per day on social media platforms. This surge is largely due to the addictive nature of these platforms, which are designed to keep us engaged. Endless scrolling, constant notifications, and the desire for likes and comments contribute to a compulsive need to check social media. This excessive use of social media is the first point to examine.

The first body paragraph sets the stage by discussing the first cause - excessive social media use. It provides data and statistics to support the claim, which makes the argument more compelling. The analysis highlights the addictive nature of social media and its impact on users. This clear and evidence-based explanation prepares the reader for the cause-and-effect relationship to be discussed.

As social media usage has surged, so too has the number of people reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have shown a significant correlation between the time spent on social media and the likelihood of experiencing these mental health issues. Constant exposure to carefully curated, idealized representations of others' lives can lead to unfavorable social comparisons. We start to measure our worth by the number of likes and followers we have, and we often fall short, which leads to anxiety and depression.

The second body paragraph effectively explores the effect of excessive social media use, which is increased anxiety and depression. It provides a clear cause-and-effect relationship, with studies backing the claims. The paragraph is well-structured and uses relatable examples, making the argument more persuasive. 

A second cause of the negative impact of social media on mental health is the phenomenon of social comparison. When we scroll through our feeds and see our friends and acquaintances posting photos of their exotic vacations, happy relationships, and personal achievements, we can't help but compare our own lives. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is a real and growing concern in today's digital age. We are constantly bombarded with images and stories that make us feel like we are missing out on the excitement and fulfillment that others seem to be experiencing.

The third body paragraph effectively introduces the second cause, which is social comparison and FOMO. It explains the concept clearly and provides relatable examples. It points out the relevance of this cause in the context of social media's impact on mental health, preparing the reader for the subsequent effect to be discussed.

Social comparison and FOMO have tangible effects on our mental health. People who engage in these comparisons often feel isolated and alone. The constant exposure to others' seemingly perfect lives can lead to a sense of inadequacy and decreased self-esteem. We start to question our own choices and accomplishments, believing that we are falling short in comparison to our peers.

The fourth body paragraph effectively explores the second effect of social comparison and FOMO, which is isolation and decreased self-esteem. It provides real-world consequences and uses relatable examples. 

In conclusion, the impact of social media on our mental health is undeniable. The excessive use of social media leads to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy, while the fear of missing out amplifies these negative emotions. It's crucial to acknowledge these challenges and their effect on our well-being. As we navigate this ever-evolving digital landscape, finding a healthier balance in the digital age becomes essential. We must consider limiting our social media use, curating our online experiences, and promoting digital detox. By taking these steps, we can protect our mental health and ensure that the benefits of social media are enjoyed without the accompanying harm.

The conclusion effectively summarizes the key points discussed in the essay. It restates the thesis statement and offers practical solutions, demonstrating a well-rounded understanding of the topic. The analysis emphasizes the significance of the conclusion in leaving the reader with a call to action or reflection on the essay's central theme.

This essay follows this clear cause and effect essay structure to convey the message effectively:

Read our cause and effect essay outline blog to learn more about how to structure your cause and effect essay effectively.

Free Cause and Effect Essay Samples

The analysis of the essay above is a good start to understanding how the paragraphs in a cause and effect essay are structured. You can read and analyze more examples below to improve your understanding.

Cause and Effect Essay Elementary School

Cause and Effect Essay For College Students

Short Cause and Effect Essay Sample

Cause and Effect Essay Example for High School

Cause And Effect Essay IELTS

Bullying Cause and Effect Essay Example

Cause and Effect Essay Smoking

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Wondering which topic to write your essay on? Here is a list of cause and effect essay topic ideas to help you out.

  • The Effects of Social Media on Real Social Networks
  • The Causes And Effects of Cyberbullying
  • The Causes And Effects of Global Warming
  • The Causes And Effects of WW2
  • The Causes And Effects of Racism
  • The Causes And Effects of Homelessness
  • The Causes and Effects of Parental Divorce on Children.
  • The Causes and Effects of Drug Addiction
  • The Impact of Technology on Education
  • The Causes and Consequences of Income Inequality

Need more topics? Check out our list of 150+ cause and effect essay topics to get more interesting ideas.

Tips For Writing a Good Cause and Effect Essay

Reading and following the examples above can help you write a good essay. However, you can make your essay even better by following these tips.

  • Choose a Clear and Manageable Topic: Select a topic that you can explore thoroughly within the essay's word limit. A narrowly defined topic will make it easier to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
  • Research and Gather Evidence: Gather relevant data, statistics, examples, and expert opinions to support your arguments. Strong evidence enhances the credibility of your essay.
  • Outline Your Essay: Create a structured outline that outlines the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. This will provide a clear roadmap for your essay and help you present causes and effects clearly and coherently.
  • Transitional Phrases: Use transitional words and phrases like "because," "due to," "as a result," "consequently," and "therefore" to connect causes and effects within your sentences and paragraphs.
  • Support Each Point: Dedicate a separate paragraph to each cause and effect. Provide in-depth explanations, examples, and evidence for each point.
  • Proofread and Edit: After completing the initial draft, carefully proofread your essay for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Additionally, review the content for clarity, coherence, and flow.
  • Peer Review: Seek feedback from a peer or someone familiar with the topic to gain an outside perspective. They can help identify any areas that need improvement.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid going off-topic or including irrelevant information. Stick to the causes and effects you've outlined in your thesis statement.
  • Revise as Needed: Don't hesitate to make revisions and improvements as needed. The process of revising and refining your essay is essential for producing a high-quality final product. 

To Sum Up , 

Cause and effect essays are important for comprehending the intricate relationships that shape our world. With the help of the examples and tips above, you can confidently get started on your essay. 

If you still need further help, you can hire a professional writer to help you out. At MyPerfectWords.com , we’ve got experienced and qualified essay writers who can help you write an excellent essay on any topic and for all academic levels.

Simply say ' help me do my essay ' and we will provide the professional support you need to get a well-written essay.

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cause and effect essay guide

cause and effect essay about garbage

  • Athens-Clarke County
  • How Local Trash Disposal Affects ...
  • Locavores Unite: How Athens Restaurants ...

Grady Newsource

  • News Athens-Clarke County

How Local Trash Disposal Affects Climate Change

  • Environment
  • Solutions Journalism
  • Sustainability
  • by Grady Capstone Journalist December 18, 2019
  • 1,601 views

Approximately 300 tons of material is disposed of in the Athens-Clarke County Landfill daily. The average dump truck holds 12 to 14 tons of waste, so approximately 23 dump truck loads of garbage are dumped into the 289-acre landfill per day.

Yet, not all of it should be garbage.

cause and effect essay about garbage

“About 50% of what goes into the landfill is estimated to be recyclable,” said Athens-Clarke County Recycling Division Program Education Specialist Mason Towe. “And then about 30% could be composted.”  

Towe hopes to eventually renovate the last 10–20% to keep it out of the landfill because the Athens-Clarke County Landfill is running out of space.

Composting and recycling are better alternatives than sending everything to the landfill, but they only work when done right. 

Landfills are designed to store waste, not break it down. Yet, to make a dent, the public needs to be educated and more active, Towe said.  “It honestly depends on how the community participates.”

The bottom line is, the Athens-Clarke County Landfill only has so much space. 

In June 2008, Athens-Clarke County purchased 79 acres from Oglethorpe County to expand the lifespan of the landfill. The new site has “an estimated life of 30 years at current disposal rates,” according to a brochure created by the Solid Waste Department .

cause and effect essay about garbage

“Nobody wants a landfill in their backyard, so every time we expand, it’s getting a little bit closer to where you live,” Towe said. “Every time you put a little bit of trash in there, it is getting bigger and bigger and bigger.”

But space isn’t the only issue.

cause and effect essay about garbage

“Landfills are the third-largest source of human-related methane emissions in the United States,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Methane, a greenhouse gas, composes 50% of landfill gas. Landfill gas is a natural byproduct of the decomposition of organic material in landfills. 

Landfill Working Face Momento360 | View and share your 360 photos and 360 videos, on the web and in VR

This is the working face of the Athens-Clarke County Landfill. Garbage trucks dump their trash here—about 300 tons a day.

“Methane is a potent greenhouse gas 28 to 36 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere over a 100-year peri od,” according to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment report (AR5) .

The amount of methane can be reduced by throwing less garbage into landfills, and o ne way to reduce the waste in landfills is by recycling.

Recycling: Putting a Bandaid on a Bigger Problem

“We’re very fortunate in that Georgia is actually the number two state for industries that use recycled content after California,” Towe said.

cause and effect essay about garbage

Many industries located in Georgia purchase recyclables from the landfill. Novelis, an industrial aluminum company headquartered in Atlanta, recycles aluminum.

“Recycling aluminum saves 95 percent of the energy needed to produce new aluminum from raw materials and the energy saved from recycling one ton of aluminum is equal to the amount of electricity the average home uses over 10 years. That means you can make 20 cans out of recycled material with the same amount of energy it takes to make one can,” according to “Rethink Waste: Recycle,” a UGA Extension article.  

Carpet manufacturers in Dalton, Georgia, the carpet capital of the world, use recycled polyethylene bottles. Strategic Materials , a recycling company with two locations in Atlanta, processes recycled glass.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, “Georgia mills using recycled content employ 7,000 people” according to “Rethink Waste: Recycle,” a UGA Extension article.

“The problem is everyone’s wanting to send their stuff to those same markets, so there’s a surplus of material and the value has really gone down,” Towe said.

The industries have become more selective of what they’re willing to take and process.

“We have to process it more, which is more expensive, so we’re spending more money to make less money right now in recycling,” Towe said.

Nethra Rajendran works with UGA dorms as a housing intern for the University of Georgia Office of Sustainability where she helps implement waste diversion tactics and recycling education programs to assist building service workers with recycling collection. 

cause and effect essay about garbage

These programs help to save potential recyclables and money— if the recycling doesn’t get contaminated. If a truck is contaminated, its contents could be taken straight to the landfill.

“We don’t want it going up the line contaminating other good recyclables. Right now, we are between a 10-15% residual rate,” Towe said.

Meaning, only 10-15% of what is sent to be recycled is processed. A lot of people don’t know what they can recycle, Rajendran said. Rajendran also helps out with an event called Dawgs Ditch the Dumpster & Donate , where students can donate household items instead of throwing them away.

Yet, nearly 28 percent, or 2 million tons, of Georgia’s household waste could have been recycled, according to “Rethink Waste: Recycle,” a UGA Extension article.

However, Towe says recycling shouldn’t be our main focus.

“Recycling is not going to fix all of the waste reduction issues,” Towe said. “Waste reduction and reuse are the ones that we need to focus on a lot more. There is so much food waste in landfills that we have got to ramp up our composting.”

Reducing Food Waste Through Composting

Composting promotes the favorable factors of decomposition by producing micro bacteria that break down food and waste into smaller pieces, according to a University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources article.

The Athens-Clarke County Landfill composts to decrease the number of yard clippings and food waste in the landfill.

Compost piles Momento360 | View and share your 360 photos and 360 videos, on the web and in VR

This is the composting area at the Athens-Clarke County Landfill where food scraps, landscape refuse and biosolids are turned into compost. 

“ Landscape refuse, such as leaves, grass clippings and trimmings, accounts for up to 20 percent of the waste being placed in landfills,” according to Composting and Mulching, a UGA extension article.

cause and effect essay about garbage

Leaf and limb collection is offered to Athens-Clarke County residents to reduce the yard waste in landfills. Every six weeks , the Solid Waste Department collects correctly packaged grass clippings, pine straw, leaves and smaller tree limbs curbside.

Then, at the landfill, the tree limbs are put through a tub grinder to be shredded into mulch.

cause and effect essay about garbage

The mulch and clippings are divided into two separate piles of nitrogen-based material. The two piles of food scraps and biosolids are kept separate because organic certified farms cannot use biosolid compost under the Organic Certification .

cause and effect essay about garbage

Sometimes, non-compostable products get mixed into compost piles.

Mark McConnell , a retired commercial composter and the executive director of the Georgia Climate Change Coalition, said there isn’t an initial sorting system at the Athens-Clarke County Landfill to sift through the organic and non-organic materials.

cause and effect essay about garbage

A lot of compostable and non-compostable materials get mixed in together. This could lead to the whole compost pile being dumped into the regular part of the landfill.  

“There is always a level of contamination in every ‘disposal’ stream, and in our inbound food scraps loads, it can fall in the 5-15% contamination range, depending on the source,” Towe said.

At the Athens-Clarke County Landfill, the compost is screened to collect large non-organic materials from the final product, but like every landfill, some things could get missed. 

“I am pleased to report that we have not seen a significant contamination problem at the ACC Municipal Composting operations. I will say that it often looks much more ‘contaminated’ than it actually is, because there are compostable/biodegradable plastic wares in the mix, such as BPI certified bags, forks, plates and cups. Those look like trash, but actually will break down over a few cycles of composting,” Towe said.

“We have two different main piles; one nitrogen source is food scrap recovery. Let Us Compost is a local collector, and the county is now doing some local collection,” Towe said.

cause and effect essay about garbage

Let Us Compost collects food scraps curbside or from apartment doors in Athens, Watkinsville and Winterville. The weekly collection of a four-gallon bucket costs $25 per month.

Additionally, you can drop off your food scraps and compostable products to the landfill for $5 per five gallons dropped off.

“The other source is biosolids or sludge—the leftover concentrated nutrients from the water reclamation facility,” Towe said.

About 25% of the biosolids created in Athens-Clarke County are composted and the remaining bio-solids are sent to the landfill,  according to a release by the Athens-Clarke County Public Utilities and Solid Waste departments.

The food waste, biosolids and yard clippings are mixed in a 3-to-1 ratio.

“We’re using aerated static piles, so we put the whole pile and that mixture all across these 80-foot pipes. About 60 feet of them have perforation,” Towe said.

The electric blowers—essentially bouncy house fans—force air through the piles.

cause and effect essay about garbage

Originally, Athens-Clarke County Landfill used a machine to manually turn and aerate the piles. The blowers take less time.

“What was taking three to four hours a day to turn all of that, now it takes a few hours to set this up and you let it sit for about three and a half weeks whereas the other piles took twice that long to turn,” Towe said. “It’s a lot less of a footprint, spatially, we can get a lot more material turned faster and back to the community to be used in gardens and landscaping, and we’re also able to take more material that would have otherwise been going in the landfill.”

As the microbes are breaking down the piles, they create a lot of heat.

“It gets up to about 140-160 degrees—it’s really cooking in there,” Towe said.

Once the piles cool down and neutralize in pH, they put the compost through the screener. Towe compares it to a giant sand sifter.

“Typically, we have a 2- or 3-inch screen on there and it sifts out any mulch or bigger pieces, rocks, things like that. The finer material will go out one side and that’s what we sell as the final product,” Towe said.

The bigger pieces leftover are put back and reused for the next batch of compost. 

The screener doesn’t effectively sort through for the undesirable mixed contaminants found in the compost pile, McConnell said, so he e ncourages private residents to compost, as this takes some of the burdens from larger groups such as the landfill.

“I would say that the commercial composting operations and household backyard composting can easily coexist and complement each other in our community,” Towe said.

He doesn’t discourage backyard composting as it helps reduce the number of scraps produced while reducing waste bills, but the efficiency of the landfill is hard to beat.

“Household backyard composting is often more affordable because you’re not paying for a collection or processing service, but it is a lot more work and burden on the individual to process the material themselves. I’ll tell you from experience composting at my own home, it takes patience and work,” Towe said.

The landfill sold 1,885 tons of compost in 2018 and has already exceeded that amount for this year.

Athens-Clarke County is reducing waste a couple of tons at a time. Their goal is to reduce waste to the landfill by 75% by 2020, Towe said.

“We have plenty of space and plenty of land in the Southeast. In the United States, we have plenty of land, but at some point you have more people using more stuff with less land,” Towe said. “It starts adding up.”

Emily Lanoue, Jordan Meaker, Taylor Morain, and Tristen Webb are seniors majoring in journalism at the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia.

  • non-recyclable
  • sustainability
  • trash pickup

cause and effect essay about garbage

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Home / Essay Samples / Environment / Ocean Pollution / Plastic Pollution In The Ocean

Plastic Pollution In The Ocean

  • Category: Science , Environment
  • Topic: Ocean , Ocean Pollution , Pollution

Pages: 3 (1159 words)

Views: 3154

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