Unit 3 - Key Area 4 (Waste)

An alternative economic model which attempts to keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them whilst in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of each stage

When a product can be recycled indefinitely back into itself without any impact on its quality. Eg. Aluminium.

The conversion of non-recyclable waste materials into usable heat, electricity, or fuel.

A date found on food packaging which shows when foods can be used until. It should be considered when trying to prevent waste

The burning of waste without energy recovery

The burying of waste, usually in disused quarries or pits is a common method of waste disposal.

Involves examining the total environmental impact of a product through every step of its life, from obtaining raw materials to disposal

The traditional model of economic development is described where products are made, use and then disposed of

The process of becoming obsolete or outdated and no longer used

Type of recycling where a loss of quality often occurs with each cycle. This limits the number of times something can be recycled. Eg. Plastic

Is purposefully implementing a strategy that ensures the current version of a given product will become out-of-date or useless within a certain time

The constant replacing of technology with the latest trendy gadgets

Occurs when a new product has been created to replace an older version

Getting rid of waste in landfill or by incineration

A diagram showing all the different methods which can be used to tackle the issue of waste, with the most sustainable at the top and the least sustainable at the bottom

Methods which involve producing less waste

Involves using waste to produce energy or materials

Turning waste into a new substance or product, including composting

Using products more than once. This process involves checking, cleaning, repairing, refurbishing, whole items or spare parts