What a Waste! Exploring Household, Industrial, and Nuclear Waste

What a Waste! Exploring Household, Industrial, and Nuclear Waste: An Interdisciplinary Curriculum Recommended for Grades 9–12 Waste is a major global sustainability issue and is deeply rooted in many facets of our lives—from the products we buy to the sources of our energy. Every year, the world generates nearly 2.4 trillion pounds of municipal solid waste; by 2025, this number is expected to double to 4.8 trillion pounds.1 In most countries with increasing population, prosperity, and urbanization, it remains a major challenge for municipalities to collect, recycle, treat, and dispose of increasing quantities of waste.2 Hazardous waste is another key piece of the waste management puzzle—improper disposal of hazardous waste can release toxins that are harmful to people and the environment. Every second, 13 tons of hazardous waste are produced around the world—equating to more than 400 million tons of hazardous waste annually.3 Taking a close look at waste issues is a vital part of working toward sustainable societies, economies, and environments