Sustainability and Waste Management - Assignment Example

In deciding on a method to employ in removal of the solvent, several factors have to be taken into consideration such as the penetration depth of the solvent into the soil, the type of unwanted solvent and the age and degree of contamination by unwanted solvent. A laboratory test is useful in determining this and it would be advisable to conduct one. For instance, it is not possible to effect complete removal of organic solvents by aeration or heating. It is also necessary to remove unwanted solvents from soil because of environmental issues (Limbachiya & London, 2004).

There are different methods that can be used to extract unwanted solvents, for instance boiling, grinding or distilling the unwanted solvent with appropriate solvents which is used less frequently. Blending could also be used especially if it is on a large scale and it is a continuous project (Limbachiya & London, 2004).According to Limbachiya & London (2004), determination of the method to use for removing the solvent requires that environmental concerns need to be taken care of, in that the method has to be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Regarding this, most United States EPA methods list sonification, a method of blending as a valid mode of extraction. This is very vital since using unauthorized methods could lead to penal action. The efficiency and cost of the method also has to be considered, methods like blending work in 10 to 15 minutes while solvent extraction could take up to twenty four hours. However solvent extraction is much cheaper, therefore, a balance needs to be created in coming up with a method; costs versus efficiency.

Question twoLight globes if discarded carelessly present a huge hazard to the environment and it is necessary that appropriate mechanisms should be adopted regarding their disposal. It is even better if the light bulbs are recycled to save vast resources. An office can save on its expenditures if it decides to recycle light globes. To develop an efficient recycling program, an office need to follow the guidelines outlined in the subsequent paragraphs (Limbachiya & London, 2004).A lot of research and learning should be carried out regarding recycling programs around the state the office is located that specifically deal with particular items like light globes.

Office equipment should also be included as one of the recyclable items in the chosen company in case there is a need to recycle other items as the recycling system grows. After identifying an appropriate recycling company, it is prudent to create a partnership with them in order to reap maximum benefits (Limbachiya & London, 2004). To save time and energy spent on recycling light globes, the office should work in coordination over a period of months to collect light globes. A storage bin made of a box need to be created for such purpose.

If possible, other offices located in other buildings in the neighborhood need to get involved and work out a venue probably with the founder of the project about the drop off zone.It is necessary to visit websites for local conservation groups that conduct recycling drives in the community that the office is located. This is important because the office will create a good impression in the community it is serving, that it is environmentally conscious. It is also advisable that the office signs up for newsletters and reminders for specific collection periods to maximize benefits and gets more information regarding recycling of light globes.

More information could create a pathway for better and bigger ideas regarding the environment (Limbachiya & London, 2004).BibliographyLimbachiya, M. C., & London, E. (2004). Sustainable waste management and recycling: glass waste : proceedings of the international conference organized by the Concrete and Masonry Research Group and held at Kingston University, London on 14-15 September 2004. London: Thomas Telford ;.