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Question
If all the waste we generate is biodegradable, will this have no impact on the environment?
Solution
Biodegradable wastes are decomposed by microorganisms into simpler substances themselves and provide raw materials for producers, but they also have adverse effects on the environment:
- Slow decomposition of biodegradable waste will result in the release of foul smell and harmful gases. When inhaled by human beings, they may cause irritation, nausea, giddiness, etc.
- Decomposing waste provides a breeding ground for some harmful organisms. An abundance of harmful microorganisms may cause diseases in animals, plants, and humans.
- An increase in the number of microorganisms in aquatic mediums will cause oxygen deficiency in waterbodies.
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RELATED QUESTIONS
Differentiate between biodegradable and non-biodegradable substances with the help of one example each.
After the examinations Rakesh with his friends went on a picnic to a nearby park. All friends carried cooked food packed in plastic bags or plastic cans. After eating the food some friends collected the leftover food and plastic bags etc and planned to dispose them off by burning. Rakesh immediately checked them and suggested to segregate the leftover food and peels of fruits from the plastic materials and respectively dispose them off separately in the green and red dustbins placed in the corner of the park.
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Plastic is a ...............material whereas paper is a.............material.
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