The generation and disposal of solid wastes in Australia

In Australia there has been an increasing consumption of such materials as plastics, paper and metals which ultimately form solid wastes. It is expected that within the next 30 years the per capitasolid waste production, now 1#lb75 lbs/person/day, will double. This has led to a number of factors causing environmental problems. Attention is focussed on pollution, resource depletion and possible alternative resource usage, some of the problems which occur directly as a result of the consumption of a natural resource. In addition the problems caused by the production of waste containers, paper and such are discussed. These include garbage disposal and litter control in an urban society. Recycling of glass and paper products is now widely practised in Australia and plans have been made to recycle metal containers. In addition, some of the social issues pertinent to these topics are briefly outlined.