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The Harmful Effects of Improper Waste Management at Home

Considering the current situation, it is high time for us to reconsider our waste management habits.

By Evan JavierPublished 6 years ago 4 min read

If there’s one thing that every household does well, it’s collecting stuff. From gadgets and folders to knick-knacks and family heirlooms, over the years, items inevitably build up. The problem is, all of this stuff we collect can quickly turn into rubbish, and then we need to get rid of it!

Stuff is one thing, but households can also generate plenty of rubbish from renovations, buying new furniture, and moving in or out.

When it comes to getting rid of all our stuff, it can be tempting to dispose of it by any means possible. Unfortunately, this improper waste management can have a devastating impact on our health and our environment. That’s why it’s always important to do the right thing.

In this article, we will outline some of the harmful effects of improper waste management and disposal, as well as how you can play your part in protecting our health and our environment.

7 Ways Incorrect Rubbish Removal Is Bad for Us All

1. Water and Air Pollution

It’s no exaggeration to say that water and air are both vital to our survival. Unfortunately, we put both of these vital resources at risk when we fail to dispose of rubbish properly.

When rubbish is disposed of incorrectly, it can end up in our waterways and even our oceans. In fact, at least 8 million tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans every year, according to the World Wildlife Federation.

This can have a range of flow-on effects, from affecting agricultural production to destroying coral reefs, and affecting sea life. Polluted water can even end up in our main water supply, making it harder to clean and potentially toxic to consume.

When it comes to air pollution, rubbish that is dumped without a second thought can result in chemicals leaching into the air. When the air we breathe is polluted, this can lead to health risks including headaches, lethargy, and respiratory distress.

2. Contaminated Soil

Throwing rubbish carelessly on the side of the road is one thing, but the problem is, rubbish doesn’t stay still. A lot of rubbish ends up being blown around before it finally settles in one location and begins to break down.

When household rubbish like water bottles or containers break down, they release toxins. These toxins can end up in soil, and that soil can affect our crops. Those crops are then used to feed our families, either directly or by being fed to animals.

As you can see, the knock-on effect of contaminated soil can be devastating and it all starts with incorrect rubbish disposal.

3. Climate Change

As you can see from the points above, the impacts of improper waste disposal are gradually damaging our planet. One of the key ways this happens is through global warming and climate change.

Rubbish that is left to decompose will release greenhouse gases. It may be sitting by the side of the road today, but soon, it will start affecting the entire ecosystem, including the ozone layer and our climate in general.

4. Human and Animal Health

Humans can be affected by the impact of discarded rubbish in a myriad of ways. This includes respiratory issues, skin irritation, allergies, stunted physical development, and eye irritation. Plastics, microplastics, and other waste can also affect our liver, kidneys, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and reproductive health. And that’s naming just a few health issues.

As well as this, rubbish attracts rodents, pests, and insects, including roaches and rats. These pests are capable of carrying and transferring bacteria and diseases that are harmful to our health.

When it comes to animal health, birds, fish, and other sea life are most at risk from the impacts of improper rubbish removal. Whether it’s contaminated water and soil, or swallowing or getting caught in discarded rubbish, improper waste disposal is deadly for wildlife.

5. The Economic Effect

If you want to increase the value of your property, you’re going to want to keep your neighbourhood clean. Dirty streets, discarded rubbish, and damaged waterways are a big turn-off for anyone considering moving into your community. As the value of your neighbourhood drops, so too does your house price.

Rubbish Removal and Skip Hire – The Easy Way to Care for Your Community

When it comes to disposing of waste at home, it pays to hire a skip to get rid of your rubbish. Most household waste that you dispose of can be put in a skip, making residential waste management much easier. Residential skips come in a range of shapes and sizes, and once you’ve filled them up, the skip hire company will responsibly dispose of your rubbish for you.

When you’re looking at skip hire companies, try and find a provider that offers affordable rubbish removal services. With an expert rubbish removal service, the professionals will come to your home, provide the skip, and do all the interior and exterior cleaning for you. When it comes to clearing out your home, it doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

So if you want to help the environment, protect your health, and improve your local community, get started with skip hire and rubbish removal services today. With an experienced, affordable, and dedicated professional on your side, your clean-out will be greener and more efficient than ever.

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