2.2 Separate Waste at Source

Keeping food waste from mixing with paper, glass and other waste makes it easier to reuse, recycle, and get rid of materials and helps prevent the health problems caused by mixed waste. Separating waste is the first step toward better waste management, though it only solves the problem if there is a good way to deal with waste after its separation. Waste separation is one phase of a system that includes reuse, composting, regular collection, recycling, and safe disposal.