The generation and management of waste is a serious environmental problem of modern societies. The neglect or improper waste management produces significant impacts on receiving environments, and can cause contamination in the water, on the ground, in the air, contribute to climate change and affect ecosystems and human health.
However, when the waste is managed properly become resources that contribute to saving raw materials, conservation of natural resources, climate and sustainable development.
A waste management plan is set up around four strategic lines:
- Reducing the amountof waste
- Reuse and extend the useful life of products
- Reducing the content ofharmful substancesin materials and products
- Minimizing adverse impacts on human health and the environment, of waste generated
The treatment systems include a set of operations that aim to modify the physical, chemical or biological characteristics of waste to reduce or neutralize the hazardous substances it contains, recover substances or materials that can be reused, facilitate use as an energy source or adjust the rejection for subsequent final treatment.