The amount of waste we collectively produce is unbelievable. The US alone produces 250 million tons of waste a year. And honestly, we don’t need numbers to see that the problem of an overflowing trash can exists at a colossal level. We are all aware of the overflowing garbage can, the stench, and the clutter we come across in the streets. And these are not just unpleasant sights, but they also pose serious threats, such as:
Diseases Due to Insects and Pests
Overflowing garbage is a perfect breeding ground for insects and pests such as rodents. These pests enter our homes through windows, pipes, and cracks, and contaminate food and water. They also spread diseases such as fever, typhoid, food poisoning, salmonella, etc. According to house pests expert Jordan Foster, more than half of domestic infestations happen because of overflowing trash hanging around for way longer than it should.
Air Pollution
Overflowing garbage can decomposes and contaminates the air with toxic particles such as nitrous oxide and methane. And these toxic gases not only cause respiratory problems but also affect overall human health.
Contamination of Surface Water
Liquid household waste from overflowing trash can seeps into the ground and impacts the chemical composition of the water. Other waste materials responsible for water pollution are batteries, residual paint, electrical equipment, etc. Our poor waste handling methods have largely contributed to degrading water quality over time, and fish and other animals have been suffering ever since.
Serious Health Issues
The effects of garbage on human health are also alarming. Garbage collectors and the poor who pick on the waste suffer health complications such as skin, wounds, blood, and intestinal infections. Moreover, hazardous waste, needles, and sharp objects can also result in the loss of life.
Effects on Cities
No one wants to visit cities reeking of the stench of overflowing garbage dominated by insects and pests. And this makes cities lose out on investment, travel, and employment opportunities.
How to Prevent Overflowing Garbage Cans?
Trash Chute
Residents, to get rid of waste in their homes, dump it on and around already full public garbage bins. To prevent this, residential building owners and contractors must install trash chutes in buildings. Trash chutes are large waste receptacles that have an opening on each floor and a storage space at the bottom to collect the waste. They ensure that the waste is deposited in a closed container to avoid contamination and pests until the respective garbage collectors collect the waste. They are a very effective waste-handling solution to eliminate the problems discussed above.
Trash Compactors
Cardboard, glass shards, metal scraps, etc. must be compacted using trash compactors to reduce the size of waste. Moreover, trash compactors keep our household waste much neater and safer, which then results in improved levels of sanitation. After all, unwanted pests won’t breed in the waste if it is neatly packed away. Trash compactors also make waste handling much easier and more convenient, and therefore, should be seriously considered.
Composting
Food scraps and yard trimmings make up 26% of the waste produced in the US. With initiatives such as creating community compost pits, not only can you reduce your waste contribution, but you can also turn organic waste into useful compost for soil and plants. While contractors and building owners can get compost pits installed, it is the responsibility of the residents to separate waste such as shredded twigs, leaves, and kitchen scraps so that they can be decomposed quickly. Many communities that do not need compost are also doing their bit because of the sense of responsibility towards our planet.
A collective effort is required to tackle the problem of poor waste disposal and overflowing garbage cans. Therefore, take initiative, appoint leaders, talk to the professionals in charge, and motivate others to bring about the change you need to see around you.
Compactor Management Company (former Northern California Compactors, Inc.) offers installation and support services for waste recycling equipment such as waste compactors, balers, shredders & conveyor systems. Established in 1981, it offers waste management solutions across the United States.
