As recently as the 1970s, "hazardous waste" was a rarely heard term, and it was not a problem of serious concern to most people. Indeed, it was not until a series of tragedies occurred in the following decades (the Bhopal in India come to mind) that the issue of hazardous waste and safety management and disposal began to emerge. Seep into public consciousness.
After these catastrophes, people began almost unanimously to demand answers. Governments began working together to prevent future damage. Since then, we have seen a number of standards that accurately address these goals. However, what does the future hold for hazardous waste management and disposal?
- Less hazardous waste will be produced
If there is one thing we have learned so far, it is that reducing hazardous waste production is generally and far better practice than attempting to dispose of it properly. Producers of hazardous waste have already started to replace these materials with non-hazardous materials. Additionally, they are training employees in greater depth in the manufacturing and handling processes and have begun to rethink all of their operating practices. In a hundred years it is likely that approaches to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices will no longer be a trend, but the norm.
- Reuse will be the most widely used treatment option
Ideally, new treatment technologies in the future will allow hazardous waste to be reused much more efficiently. Currently, most hazardous waste is landfilled or incinerated. In a hundred years, we can predict that an increasing percentage of the hazardous components of waste will be reused.
- Electronic waste will be a big challenge
The world has gone digital, and while this has provided most people with incredible benefits and conveniences, it also poses a serious environmental challenge. Today's technology changes rapidly and what was popular and new the year before is outdated and boring this year. Unless someone comes up with a comprehensive solution for e-waste disposal, this problem is only going to get worse over the years.
- Everyone will be interested in hazardous waste management
In the 1970s, when the term “hazardous waste” was still shrouded in mystery and confusion, people did not have the incredible access to information that they have today. With the emergence of the information age, people now have access to any type of information they want. In addition, they can have it at any time and anywhere in the world. As the public is better informed about environmental issues, the problem of hazardous waste disposal and management will no longer belong to a small fraction of society. Environmental health benefits everyone, and once it has been accepted by the majority, everyone can be expected to share the same vision.
