The ‘four mosts’ for solid waste”

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The solid waste problem has its unique characteristics compared to other forms of environmental problems. In brief, it can be described by the \"four mosts\": it is the hardest to dispose of, the most comprehensive environmental issue, the one that receives attention the latest, and the environmental problem that is closest to us. 　　Most difficult to dispose of: Solid waste is the most difficult type to handle among the \"three types of waste,\" as it contains quite complex components, and its physical properties (volume, fluidity, uniformity, degree of fragmentation, moisture content, calorific value, etc.) vary greatly. 　　The most comprehensive environmental issue: solid waste pollution is by no means a single problem; it is also accompanied by water pollution and air pollution issues. Therefore, the section on regulations and standards for a green Beijing also includes many regulations and standards related to water pollution and air pollution. Even in the simplest type of waste landfills, where solid waste is treated in a manner that meets environmental standards, there is still the issue of groundwater contamination caused by landfill leachate; such landfills must therefore have the capability to treat wastewater and to properly handle the gases emitted from them. We cannot ignore its impact on our living space and on the sustainable development of humanity. 　　Least attention paid: Among the three forms of pollution—solid, liquid, and gas (solid waste pollution, water pollution, air pollution)—the issue of solid waste pollution is the one that last attracted people’s attention and receives the least attention among all pollution problems. 　　The most relevant environmental issue is the problem of solid waste, particularly urban household waste, which is closely linked to people’s daily lives and thus represents the environmental issue most associated with human existence. People generate and dispose of waste every day, inadvertently polluting our living environment. We complain about a lack of resources and about a poor environment, but do we realize the impact that each small action we take – such as throwing away an old battery, a disposable plastic lunchbox, or even old paper – has on resources and the environment? Paying attention to the issue of solid waste means focusing on the environmental problem that is closest to us. By paying attention to the waste problems in our daily lives, we can most effectively raise public awareness regarding the environment and resources. By paying attention to our lives and our environment, it’s just as Michael Jackson sang in \"Save the World\": \"Heal the world, make it a better place, for you and for me...\" To raise public awareness of the environment and resources, it is no wonder that environmental education in the West starts with waste education.