Waste Management — Set 1
Environment · अपशिष्ट प्रबंधन · Questions 1–10 of 40
What is the primary objective of the 'Extended Producer Responsibility' (EPR) policy?
Correct Answer: A. To make manufacturers responsible for the product's end-of-life
EPR shifts the responsibility of waste management back to the manufacturer. This encourages producers to design products that are easier to recycle or reuse. It is a key strategy used globally to manage electronic and plastic waste.
Which type of waste is specifically categorized under 'Yellow Bag' in clinical waste management?
Correct Answer: C. Human anatomical waste
Yellow bags are used for highly infectious waste such as body parts and soiled dressings. This waste is usually disposed of through incineration to ensure pathogens are destroyed. Proper segregation at the source is vital for hospital safety.
Which chemical element is the primary concern during the disposal of old fluorescent lamps?
Correct Answer: D. Mercury
Fluorescent lamps contain small amounts of mercury vapor which is toxic to the nervous system. If broken in landfills, mercury can leach into the groundwater or evaporate into the air. Special recycling centers are required to safely recover this liquid metal.
The process of 'Vermicomposting' involves the use of which organism to decompose organic waste?
Correct Answer: A. Earthworms
Earthworms break down organic matter into nutrient-rich manure called vermicast. This method is faster than traditional composting and produces high-quality organic fertilizer. It is highly effective for managing household kitchen waste.
What does the 'Blue Bin' signify in a two-bin waste collection system?
Correct Answer: C. Dry recyclable waste
The blue bin is intended for dry waste like paper, plastic, and metal. Segregating dry waste helps in efficient mechanical recycling and reduces landfill pressure. Biodegradable waste is typically kept in green bins.
Which gas is primarily harvested from sanitary landfills for energy production?
Correct Answer: D. Methane
Landfill gas is produced by the anaerobic decomposition of organic waste and consists mostly of methane. Capturing this methane prevents it from contributing to global warming while providing fuel. This process is a significant step in modern sustainable waste management.
Which method involves the thermal decomposition of organic materials in the complete absence of oxygen?
Correct Answer: A. Pyrolysis
Pyrolysis breaks down materials into gases, liquids, and charcoal without combustion. Unlike incineration, it does not involve the direct burning of waste. It is often used to convert plastic or tires into industrial fuel oils.
What is the liquid that drains from a landfill and contains dissolved contaminants called?
Correct Answer: C. Leachate
Leachate is formed when rainwater filters through waste, picking up harmful chemicals. Landfills must have protective liners and collection systems to prevent leachate from polluting soil. Treatment of this liquid is essential before it can be released into the environment.
Which of these is a non-biodegradable waste?
Correct Answer: C. Nylon cloth
Nylon is a synthetic polymer that does not decompose naturally for hundreds of years. Most natural fibers like cotton break down much faster than synthetic ones. Reducing the use of synthetic materials is a major goal in pollution control.
In the context of the 5Rs of waste management, what does 'Refuse' stand for?
Correct Answer: D. Declining unnecessary items
Refusing involves saying no to single-use items or unnecessary packaging at the point of purchase. It is the most effective way to prevent waste from entering the ecosystem in the first place. This concept precedes recycling and reusing in the hierarchy of waste management.