Problem 1
Do you think that manufacturers of computers, television sets, cell phones, and other electronic products (Core Case Study) should be required to take their products back at the end of their useful lives for repair, remanufacture, or recycling in a manner that is environmentally responsible and that does not threaten the health of recycling workers? Explain. Would you be willing to pay more for these products to cover the costs of such a take- back program? If so, what percentage more per purchase would you be willing to pay for these products?
Problem 2
Think of three items that you regularly use once and then throw away. Are there reusable items that you could use in place of these disposable items?
Problem 3
Do you think that you could consume less by refusing to buy some of the things you regularly buy? If so, what are three of those things? Do you think that this is something you ought to do? Explain.
Problem 4
A company called Changing World Technologies has built a pilot plant to test a process it has developed for converting a mixture of discarded computers, old tires, turkey bones and feathers, and other wastes into oil by mimicking and speeding up natural processes for converting biomass into oil. Explain how this recycling process, if it turns out to be technologically and economically feasible, could lead to increased waste production.
Problem 5
Would you oppose having (a) a sanitary landfill, (b) a hazardous waste surface impoundment, (c) a hazardous waste deep- injection well, or (d) a solid waste incinerator in your community? For each of these facilities, explain your answer. If you oppose having such facilities in your community, how do you think the solid and hazardous wastes generated in your community should be managed?
Problem 6
How does your school dispose of its solid and hazardous wastes? Does it have a recycling program? How well does it work? Does your school encourage reuse? If so, how? Does it have a hazardous waste collection system? If so, describe it. List three ways in which you would improve your school's waste reduction and management systems.
