People have been trying to figure out what COP26 means for waste disposal methods across the world. The agreement reached COP21 in Paris has now been ratified. It is clear that the UN wants a global ban on all landfills by 2030, but there are many questions about how this will happen. We need to look back at some significant developments over the last few years to answer these questions.
COP24 was an essential step towards achieving zero-waste since they agreed-upon standard definitions surrounding recycling processes and marketing practices aimed at promoting environmentally responsible consumption choices. Another big win came from China when they announced their ban on importing plastic waste earlier this year. This has led to uncertainty in the recycling industry since China was responsible for importing half of all plastic waste.
COP26, which takes place this month, could be another critical step towards zero waste if they can develop an effective plan on implementing the ban by 2030. Many countries are concerned about their ability to meet these targets. There is still disagreement over whether or not landfill bans should only apply within borders instead of across borders like China’s ban does.
Methods that can be used to reduce the amount of waste created and increase the amount of waste recycled or reused
One thing that we can do is reduce plastic consumption by focusing on reusable alternatives to single-use plastics. We should also try to make recycling more convenient for people since it has been proven that this leads to higher recycling rates. Lastly, governments need to provide funding and support for initiatives like building infrastructure and developing business models to reduce waste production and increase responsible disposal methods. This could be a big win in combatting climate change since studies show landfills contribute up to 12% of global greenhouse gas emissions every year!
Another way of reducing waste is by recycling. By recycling, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save energy by reducing the demand for new products made from virgin materials.
Recycling also reduces the amount of waste in dumps by reusing materials instead of throwing them away. By using recycled products, we reduce our demand for new resources to be taken from nature and turn old goods into something that can be used again. This is an essential part of fighting climate change because it helps lower greenhouse gas emissions which contribute up to 12% every year!
For more information on recycling, see: New Year Clear-out: Best Ways to Recycle Your Clutter
If these strategies are implemented globally, it could lead to considerable reductions in landfills which contribute to climate change! Let’s hope that COP26 leads us closer towards zero waste since this would make our world cleaner and healthier.