Which waste management technique minimizes waste generation?

The technique that minimizes waste generation is waste prevention or source reduction. This approach focuses on practices that reduce the amount of waste created at its source, rather than managing or treating waste after it has been generated. By altering product design, promoting more efficient processes, and encouraging the use of fewer materials, this strategy effectively decreases the quantity of waste produced in the first place.

In contrast to waste prevention, recycling transforms waste materials into new products, which, while beneficial for managing waste and conserving resources, does not prevent waste generation from happening initially. Incineration involves burning waste to reduce its volume, but it does not address the generation of waste at the source. Similarly, landfilling disposes of waste without reducing the total amount created, merely burying it for future management and potential environmental impacts. Thus, waste prevention stands out as the most effective method for minimizing waste generation overall.