Award in Waste Management

The module is designed to enable the learner to understand the main sources from where waste is derived, to appreciate the problems associated with waste disposal, to analyse waste reduction methods during the production phase and during the disposal cycle of a product.

The unit also helps learners to become aware of the move towards waste minimisation techniques and the resulting overall benefits these will provide society. The student will acquire a range of practical skills and knowledge to be able to apply waste reduction methods in their own environment and also to an industrial / business enterprise.

Waste Management addresses the activities and actions required to manage waste from its inception to its final disposal. This includes the collection, transport, treatment and disposal of waste, together with monitoring and regulation of the waste management process.

Waste can be solid, liquid or gaseous and each type has different methods of disposal and management. Waste management deals with all types of waste, including industrial, biological and household. In some cases waste can pose a threat to human health. Waste is produced by human activity, for example the extraction and processing of raw materials. Waste management is intended to reduce adverse effects of waste on human health, the environment or aesthetics.

Learning Outcomes / Objectives

• LO 1. Discuss why waste is produced in abundance in today’s society.
• LO 2. Appraise the importance of sorting and the careful disposal of various types of waste.
• LO 3. Distinguish between various methods of waste disposal, whilst assessing their advantages and disadvantages and environmental impacts.
• LO 4. Assess the growth in awareness of the needs to manage waste and waste disposal techniques.
• LO 5. Identify associated problems of waste disposal sites and outline possible rehabilitation methods of landfill site.
• LO 6. Trace the life cycle of any product and assess methods of waste reduction during the life cycle of that product.

Pre-Requisites to Follow this Course

• Over 21 years of Age
• Basic English – Verbal as well as Written.
• Basic Mathematical Skills.
• Prior industrial experience in basic Waste Management will greatly assist the participant.