3RC (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Compost)
Reduce, reuse, recycle, repeat!Copyright Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/masondo/8558569053
Students expand their understanding of solid waste management to include the idea of 3RC: reduce, reuse, recycle and compost. They look at the effects of packaging decisions (reducing) and learn about engineering advancements in packaging materials and solid waste management. Through an associated activity, they observe biodegradation in a model landfill (composting).
Engineers are involved in all steps of integrated-waste management. They use smaller amounts of materials to package products as discussed in the relevant activity It's all In the Package, and use recyclable and reusable materials when possible. Chemical engineers develop environmentally friendly, recyclable materials. Engineers investigate ways to accelerate the decomposition process, develop industrial systems that burn trash for energy at power plants, and design innovative landfills that are more economical and reduce pollution. Have students explore how engineers work with composting in landfills by conducting the associated activity Composting – Nature's Disappearing Act. Then have students explore the third "R", recycling, by conducting the activity Test & Improve: Making Tall & Strong Recycled Towers.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain different methods of waste disposal.
- Explain some of the major problems that waste disposal causes.
- Explain 3RC (reduce, reuse, recycle, compost).
- Describe the different steps involved in integrated waste management.
- Identify ways engineers are involved in 3RC and solid waste management.