Enviro-Fill: An Introduction Continued ...
Although individuals play a major role in solving the dilemma, the overall success of a waste management system will depend on external influences, initiatives and co-operation at all levels of society.
Local decision-makers must assume the responsibility of managing the local waste stream. Government can however have an immediate and long-lasting impact by assuming responsibility for the waste stream but that is not to say that they must deliver the service. Their responsibility lies in determining how the service is provided, who provides the service and under what conditions this will take place.
The general failure to assume full responsibility for proper waste management has resulted in adverse environmental impacts associated with past disposal practices. Poorly operated landfills have caused soil, surface and groundwater contamination and significant portions of waste management budgets are being used to clean up the negative effects of those past practices.
Stricter regulations will result in the closure of many existing facilities and the enforcement of environmental controls are making new facilities more costly to build and operate.
The fact that in more densely populated areas space is not readily available has resulted in what is being called a "landfill capacity crisis".
Across the world decision makers are investigating alternative, holistic waste management practices that are environmentally sound, economically viable and sustainable.
Landfills, however, will always be necessary as a part of the waste management solution because certain waste streams cannot be handled in any other manner.
