We throw away solid waste which refers to a variety of old and used articles. These include stained small pieces of metals, broken glassware, plastic containers, polythene bags, ash, floppies, CDs, and other discarded materials. These are also termed as refuse, garbage, and rubbish.

The wastes are disposed of from two main sources: household or domestic establishments and industrial or commercial establishments. Additionally, huge amounts of ashes and debris come from industries, thermal power houses, and building constructions or demolitions.

We throw these materials away because they are old, used, and no longer serve their original purpose. However, these wastes should be treated as resources and utilised for generating energy and compost, as untreated wastes ferment slowly and release toxic biogas including methane to the atmosphere.