Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Source reduction refers to the practice of reducing the amount of waste generated at its origin. It involves minimizing the use of materials, energy, and resources in order to prevent waste generation.
Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new products. It involves collecting and processing used materials to create new items instead of throwing them away.
Waste management: Waste management encompasses all activities involved in handling waste materials, including collection, transportation, disposal, and recycling.
Life cycle assessment (LCA): LCA is a method used to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with a product or service throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.