Garbage is a serious business, and the management of waste has become one of the most pressing issues of our time. WASH, an acronym developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), refers to water, sanitation, and hygiene, and highlights regions that lack access to these basic services. Without adequate waste management systems, communities can face severe health and environmental consequences. Waste management involves the collection, treatment, and disposal of garbage, and is a key function for maintaining public health. In 2020, it was found that only 54% of the global population had access to proper sanitation services, leaving over 1.7 billion people without private toilets. This statistic sheds light on the significant gap in sanitation infrastructure and emphasizes the importance of effective waste management practices in improving public health worldwide.

In 2016, statistics revealed that a staggering 33% of the world’s solid waste was disposed of in open dumps, with landfills accounting for just over 25%. Recycling accounted for 13.5%, highlighting the inefficiency in waste management processes across the globe. Countries that fail to manage waste properly risk the spread of diseases such as cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and intestinal worms. Poor sanitation leads to millions of preventable deaths each year, especially in underdeveloped and developing regions. Innovations like the omni processor, a machine designed to remove pathogens from waste, have been instrumental in improving sanitation practices. Bill Gates, a strong advocate for sanitation improvements, even drank a glass of water purified by the omni processor to demonstrate its effectiveness, underscoring the critical role of sanitation technology in safeguarding public health.

One of the leading waste management companies globally, Waste Management Inc., generated a revenue of $14.5 billion in 2021, employing over 42,000 people. This underscores the profitability and necessity of the waste management industry, which has become an essential part of the global economy. However, the sanitation business isn’t without its challenges. In some regions, organized crime has infiltrated waste management due to the high profit margins and the relatively easy entry into the business. This phenomenon highlights the complexity and challenges of regulating waste management, especially in areas where infrastructure and governance are weak. It also brings attention to the potential dangers posed by poor waste management systems, as unsanitary conditions can foster the spread of diseases.

Historically, the Romans were the first to build a comprehensive sewer system, the Cloaca Maxima, under Rome in the 6th century BCE. This early innovation laid the foundation for modern sanitation systems, and similar systems were later developed in other civilizations, such as the Indus Valley, which implemented underground drains to dispose of sewage around 3,300 BCE. Despite these early advancements, much of the world still struggles with waste management issues. In modern times, large landfills, like the Apex Regional Landfill in Las Vegas, Nevada, have become a symbol of the ongoing waste crisis. Spanning over 2,200 acres, this landfill receives more than 9,000 tons of waste daily, making it the largest in the world. However, landfills have a dark side; they are responsible for producing large amounts of methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas. Properly managed landfills capture methane to produce electricity, heat, and fuel, helping to mitigate the environmental impact.

Waste management, despite its challenges, also presents opportunities for innovation and environmental sustainability. As the global population continues to grow, effective waste management will become even more crucial to maintaining public health and reducing the environmental impact of waste. The concept of “Garbology,” a term coined by Dr. William Rathje in 1973, examines the relationship between garbage, society, and the environment. By combining archaeology, history, and sociology, Garbology offers valuable insights into the ways waste impacts human societies and the environment. Understanding how societies handle waste can provide solutions to the ongoing garbage crisis and inspire more sustainable practices moving forward. In addition, the role of education and community involvement is key in raising awareness about the importance of waste management and recycling.

The average person spends about one to one and a half years of their life on the toilet, underscoring the importance of proper sanitation systems for personal hygiene. Despite this, approximately 494 million people worldwide still practice open defecation, highlighting the disparity in access to sanitation facilities. This number includes individuals who lack private toilets, emphasizing the need for improved sanitation infrastructure in rural and urban areas. While Western countries may find bidets commonplace in Europe, many developing countries still lack access to basic sanitation, contributing to the global sanitation crisis. Proper waste management and sanitation are integral to improving public health and creating sustainable, hygienic living environments. As the world continues to urbanize, addressing waste management challenges will remain a critical issue for governments, businesses, and communities alike.

Ultimately, garbage management isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about public health, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The world’s ability to tackle waste effectively will determine the future of urban development and environmental conservation. Whether it’s through improving recycling rates, creating better waste disposal methods, or finding ways to turn garbage into resources, tackling the issue of waste management has never been more urgent. By implementing better policies, encouraging responsible consumption, and investing in innovative technologies, the global community can work together to address the growing challenges associated with waste.