The Fate of Things You No Longer Want!

The Fate of Things You No Longer Want!

Every item we purchase embarks on a journey far beyond our homes.

Understanding the lifecycle of our belongings—from purchase to disposal—sheds light on the environmental and economic impacts of consumption habits.

By understanding the pathways of disposability and the implications of our consumption, we can make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable and responsible future.

Catagories of Waste

Canada categorizes waste management into two primary sources: residential and non-residential.

Residential waste comes from households—everyday items like food scraps, packaging, and household products.

On the other hand, non-residential waste comes from industrial, commercial, and institutional activities. Like construction and demolition debris, manufacturing waste, and materials from businesses and schools.

Waste Diversion and Disposal: A Comparative Overview

In Canada, households and businesses kept nearly 10 million tonnes of waste out of landfills in 2022 through recycling and composting efforts. The United States recycled or composted around 32% of its waste. The remaining ends up in landfills or incinerators. 

The Challenge of Organic Waste

Organic waste, in landfills, emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In 2022, Canadians diverted over 3 million tonnes of organic waste. Food waste was 52% of this total. 

The Surge in Product Returns

The rise of e-commerce has brought about a boom in product returns. In the U.S., returns amounted to $743 billion in 2023, representing 14.5% of total retail sales. 

Environmental Impact of Product Returns

The return process has notable environmental consequences: Carbon Emissions, diversion to the landfills, and resource waste.

The Growing Secondhand Market

The secondhand apparel market is expanding as people seek sustainable and affordable options.

In the U.S., this market grew to $43 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $73 billion by 2028. Statista has some interesting statistics about the Canadian secondhand market.

Canadian consumers are taking this avenue of waste reduction in greater numbers and promoting a circular economy by secondhand shopping

Addressing Fast Fashion Waste

Fast fashion contributes to textile waste. In the U.S., nearly 11 million tons of clothes get thrown away annually.   Canadian initiatives combat similar issues by focusing on sustainable fashion and waste reduction.

Innovative Solutions and Sustainable Practices

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach:

• Upcycling and Repair: Designers and organizations are transforming waste into new products, promoting a circular economy.

• Legislative Measures: Policies like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) encourage manufacturers to design products with their end-of-life in mind, promoting sustainability.

• Consumer Awareness: Educating consumers about the impacts of their purchasing decisions can lead to more mindful consumption and disposal habits.