Page 175 - Health, Population and Environment Education 9

Types of solid wastes
Solid wastes are classified under the following types:
Solid Wastes

Biodegradable wastes Non-biodegradable wastes Landfill wastes

Food stuff Metallic objects Ceramics
Vegetable parts Glass pieces Film roll

Fruits skin Rubber Mineral water bottles

Rotten fruits Plastic Laminated paper

Animal parts Broken utensils Wrapping paper
a. Biodegradable wastes
Those solid wastes which can be converted into
compost or manure are called biodegradable
wastes. These wastes decompose, decay and
produce bad smelling in the surrounding. For
example, food stuff, vegetable parts, plant residues,
meat, skin, bones, fruits, fruit skin, animal dung,
egg shells, dead animals, grass, straw, etc.
Generally, (70 – 80)% of the total wastes produced Fig: 23
are biodegradable wastes. Biodegradable wastes

b. Non-biodegradable wastes
Those solid wastes which cannot be converted into
compost or manure are called non-biodegradable
wastes. These wastes do not decay and decompose
even after long period of time. For example,
plastics, metal, glass, rubber, bricks, stone,
marble, etc. Generally, (20-30)% of the total wastes
produced are non-biodegradable wastes. Though Fig: 24
these wastes cannot be decomposed, they can be Non-biodegradable wastes
reused and recycled.

C. Landfill wastes/Disposable wastes
Those solid wastes which can neither be converted
into compost nor be reused or recycled are called
landfill wastes/disposable wastes. These wastes
need to be dumped properly in landfill sites or
dumping sites. For example, Laminated paper, film
roll, gift wrappers, mineral water bottles, etc. About
5% of total wastes produced are landfill wastes/ Fig: 25
disposable wastes. Landfill wastes
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 175