Instructions:
Optional Extra Credit (EVT-255) – Due 4/21
This optional extra credit assignment is for those of you who would like an opportunity to replace your
lowest test score. If the grade earned on this assignment is greater than your lowest test score, this
grade will replace it. For example, if you had a 50% on Quiz 2 and get an 83% on this assignment, the
50% will be replaced with the 83% in the calculation of your final grade. If this assignment grade is less
than your lowest test score, your overall grade is not affected, as this assignment grade will be dropped.
Now, on to the assignment!
Assignment:
For this assignment, I would like a 3- to 4-page paper on a municipal solid waste topic of your choice.
The criteria required for the assignment:
1) Do NOT use AI in any way! I will run your paper through at least three different AI checkers.
2) Choose a municipal solid waste topic that you believe is of importance and not enough is being
done about it. State why this is an important topic that should be addressed. (Some suggestive
topics are landfill closings, landfill openings, recycling, intrastate transportation, incineration
with its potential air pollution and landfilling of ash, etc.)
3) Go into detail on the issue’s effects on municipal solid waste landfills, the environment, animals
and people, specific health issues, and how these negative effects are caused by this topic
(whether it be a material, process, too much/too little legislation, etc.)
4) State any governmental regulations that address this topic. What do the regulations require or
not require that would better this situation? Is federal involvement necessary or can the state
and local governments handle this topic? Is this something the community can take care of
without government involvement?
5) If there is legislation already in existence, how has the legislation changed the results of this
MSW concern since it was enacted?
6) If governmental regulations do not exist, are there proposed regulations? If no regulations
currently exist, what do you suggest be done?
7) State what your overall opinion is on what has been done to this point. State specifics to support
your opinion.
Formatting Requirements:
1) Font style – Times New Roman or Calibri
2) Font size – 11
3) Spacing – single
4) Margins – “Normal” (1-inch top, bottom, and both sides)
5) Reference requirements – the class text AND at least three of the following: government
websites and documents, online news articles (CNN, FOX, PBS, MSNBC, Huffington Post, etc.),
and online magazine articles. NOTE: You can NOT use Wikipedia as one of your sources.
6) A bibliography/works cited is required, but the format is informal
7) If you use a direct quote, you MUST provide the page and paragraph number so I can find it
8) You must provide a working website address or hyperlink to any online material used for the
paper
9) Charts and pictures do NOT count toward the 3 to 4 pages. I do, however, recommend that you
use them to support the material in the paper, if available
I will make a drop-box for this assignment. Let me know if you have any questions or concerns. –
These are the reference :
I need you to incorporate in this essay information from these links
Addressing Food Waste in Municipal Solid Waste Management: A Crucial Step Towards Sustainability
Can you Use these links as reference:
https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/sustainable-management-food-basics
https://www.hennepin.us/choose-to-reuse/tips/2022-reducing-food-waste#:~:text=The%20U.S.%20Environmental%20Protection%20Agency,unnecessary%20burden%20on%20the%20climate.
– Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2019). The State of Food and Agriculture 2019: Moving Forward on Food Loss and Waste Reduction. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Sustainable Management of Food. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– United Nations Environment Programme. (2021). Food Waste Index Report 2021. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– Gunders, D. (2017). Waste-Free Kitchen Handbook: A Guide to Eating Well and Saving Money by Wasting Less Food. Chronicle Books.
The two versions of the essay I need
you to combine and rewrite into one 4 page essay with the use of all the references :
Title: Addressing Food Waste in Municipal Solid Waste Management: A Crucial Step Towards Sustainability
Introduction
Food waste within the realm of municipal solid waste management is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention. This paper advocates for a comprehensive approach to tackle food waste by highlighting its detrimental effects on landfills, the environment, and society at large. By exploring the causes and consequences of food waste and examining existing and proposed regulations, we can shed light on the importance of addressing this issue and propose effective strategies to mitigate its impact.
The Importance of Addressing Food Waste
Food waste is a critical topic within municipal solid waste management due to its significant environmental, economic, and social implications. Globally, approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption is wasted, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, and resource depletion. Addressing food waste is crucial not only to reduce the strain on landfills but also to promote sustainable resource management, alleviate hunger, and mitigate climate change.
Effects on Municipal Solid Waste Landfills
Food waste poses considerable challenges to municipal solid waste landfills. When organic waste, such as food scraps, ends up in landfills, it decomposes and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Methane emissions contribute to climate change and exacerbate global warming. Additionally, the large volume of food waste in landfills accelerates the filling rate, necessitating the expansion or construction of new landfills, which can have detrimental effects on local ecosystems and communities.
Environmental Implications
Food waste has far-reaching environmental implications. The resources used in food production, such as water, energy, and agricultural land, are squandered when food is wasted. Additionally, the disposal of food waste in landfills generates substantial greenhouse gas emissions, mainly methane. These emissions contribute significantly to climate change, exacerbating the adverse effects of global warming. By reducing food waste, we can conserve resources, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and promote a more sustainable and resilient environment.
Social and Economic Consequences
Food waste impacts society and the economy in various ways. Wasting food means squandering valuable resources that could have been used to feed people in need. In a world where millions suffer from hunger and malnutrition, addressing food waste becomes a moral imperative. Moreover, food waste represents a significant economic loss for producers, retailers, and consumers. Reducing food waste can create economic opportunities, improve food security, and alleviate the financial burden on households.
Governmental Regulations and Initiatives
In recent years, governments worldwide have recognized the urgency of addressing food waste and have implemented regulations and initiatives to combat it. These measures focus on various stages of the food supply chain, including production, distribution, retail, and consumption. For instance, some countries have enacted laws that prohibit the disposal of food waste in landfills or require businesses to separate and divert food waste for alternative uses, such as composting or anaerobic digestion. Additionally, educational campaigns and awareness programs aim to change consumer behavior and encourage responsible food management.
Proposed Strategies and Recommendations
To further advance the reduction of food waste, several strategies can be implemented. Firstly, fostering collaboration between stakeholders, including government bodies, food producers, retailers, and consumers, is crucial. This collaboration can lead to innovative solutions, such as improved supply chain management, standardized food labeling, and surplus food redistribution programs. Secondly, investing in infrastructure for food waste recovery, such as composting facilities and anaerobic digestion plants, can help divert organic waste from landfills and promote resource recovery. Finally, promoting consumer education and awareness about the impacts of food waste is essential in encouraging behavioral changes and responsible food consumption.
Conclusion
Addressing food waste within municipal solid waste management is of paramount importance to mitigate its adverse effects on landfills, the environment, and society. By implementing comprehensive regulations, fostering collaboration between stakeholders, and promoting behavior change among consumers, we can reduce food waste and achieve a more sustainable and resilient future. Efforts to tackle food waste not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance food security, alleviate poverty, and foster more responsible consumption patterns.
References:
– Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2019). The State of Food and Agriculture 2019: Moving Forward on Food Loss and Waste Reduction. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Sustainable Management of Food. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– United Nations Environment Programme. (2021). Food Waste Index Report 2021. Retrieved from [insert hyperlink]
– Gunders, D. (2017). Waste-Free Kitchen Handbook: A Guide to Eating Well and Saving Money by Wasting Less Food. Chronicle Books.
Or this version
Title: Addressing Food Waste in Municipal Solid Waste Management: A Crucial Step Towards Sustainability
Introduction:
Municipal solid waste (MSW) management is a critical issue that requires attention to ensure a sustainable future. This paper focuses on the topic of reducing food waste, highlighting its significance in achieving sustainability and addressing environmental concerns. By examining the effects of food waste on the environment, emphasizing the benefits of reducing food waste at the individual level, and recognizing the importance of integrating food waste management into MSW systems, we can develop a comprehensive understanding of the role of food waste reduction in achieving sustainability goals.
Effects of Food Waste on the Environment:
Reducing food waste is essential for conserving resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating environmental impacts. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes the importance of sustainable food management throughout the entire life cycle, from production to disposal (EPA, Sustainable Management of Food Basics). Wasted food contributes to the generation of greenhouse gases, such as methane, when it ends up in landfills or incinerators. By minimizing food waste, individuals can decrease their environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Benefits of Reducing Food Waste at the Individual Level:
At the individual level, reducing food waste not only benefits the environment but also leads to significant financial savings. The Choose to Reuse program by Hennepin County highlights that households in America spend a substantial amount of money on food that eventually goes to waste (Hennepin County, Choose to Reuse). By adopting better food management practices, such as planning meals, buying only what is needed, and properly storing perishable items, individuals can save money and have more resources available.
Integration of Food Waste Management into MSW Systems:
Integrating food waste management into MSW systems is a crucial step towards achieving sustainability goals. Addressing food waste within the broader framework of MSW management allows for comprehensive and efficient waste reduction strategies. By implementing measures such as composting, anaerobic digestion, or donation programs, communities can divert food waste from landfills and utilize it for beneficial purposes, such as producing compost or generating renewable energy.
Conclusion:
Reducing food waste is a vital component of achieving sustainability. By minimizing wasted food at the individual level, individuals can contribute to environmental preservation and enjoy financial savings. Furthermore, integrating food waste management into MSW systems is essential for efficient waste reduction and resource conservation. By recognizing the importance of food waste reduction and implementing comprehensive strategies, we can work towards a more sustainable future in municipal solid waste management.
