Describe the concept of "integrated waste management."

The concept of integrated waste management involves a comprehensive approach that combines various waste strategies to effectively manage waste through its entire lifecycle. This approach recognizes that no single waste management technique can resolve all waste issues; instead, it employs multiple methods such as waste reduction, recycling, composting, energy recovery, and landfilling in a coordinated manner.

Integrated waste management aims to minimize the environmental impact of waste while maximizing resource recovery and promoting sustainability. It factors in the entire waste system, from generation and collection to transportation and disposal, ensuring that all aspects are addressed in a balanced way. By adapting various strategies to the type and nature of waste, it seeks to optimize outcomes for both the environment and the community.

Other options, while reflecting certain aspects of waste management, do not capture the holistic nature of integrated waste management. For instance, focusing solely on landfilling overlooks the need for reduction and recovery techniques. Similarly, aiming to completely eliminate waste generation disregards the reality that some waste will always be produced, and a pragmatic approach must be adopted. Finally, relying exclusively on recycling fails to address non-recyclable waste and the necessity of managing other waste streams effectively.