Life cycles

Waste issues can be better understood by examining the life cycle of the materials that compose it, from extraction to final disposal.

Materials are transformed into waste as a consequence of various production and consumption processes. Residual by-products from these transformation processes that are discharged directly into air and water are called emissions. Residuals that are further handled before being discharged are referred to as waste.

Once generated, waste may be reused, recycled, transferred for treatment (to reduce its toxicity), incinerated (to reduce its volume) or buried in landfills.

Life cycle of