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The amount of waste we collectively produce is unbelievable. The US alone produces 250 million tons of waste a year. And honestly, we don’t need numbers to see that the problem of an overflowing trash can exists at a colossal level. We are all aware of the overflowing garbage cans, the stench, and the clutter we come across on the streets. And these are not just unpleasant sights, but they also pose serious threats, such as:

Diseases Due to Insects and Pests

Overflowing garbage is a perfect breeding ground for insects and pests such as rodents. These pests enter our homes through windows, pipes, and cracks, and contaminate food and water. They also spread diseases such as fever, typhoid, food poisoning, salmonella, etc. According to house pests expert Jordan Foster, more than half of domestic infestations happen because of overflowing trash hanging around for way longer than it should.

Air Pollution

Overflowing garbage can decompose and contaminate the air with toxic particles such as nitrous oxide and methane. And these toxic gases not only cause respiratory problems but also affect overall human health.

Contamination of Surface Water

Liquid household waste from overflowing trash cans seeps into the ground and impacts the chemical composition of the water. Other waste materials responsible for water pollution are batteries, residual paint, electrical equipment, etc. Our poor waste handling methods have largely contributed to degrading water quality over time, and fish and other animals have been suffering ever since.

Serious Health Issues

The effects of garbage on human health are also alarming. Garbage collectors and the poor who pick on the waste suffer health complications such as skin, wounds, blood, and intestinal infections. Moreover, hazardous waste, needles, and sharp objects can also result in the loss of life.

Effects on Cities

No one wants to visit cities reeking of the stench of overflowing garbage dominated by insects and pests. And this makes cities lose out on investment, travel, and employment opportunities.

How Overflowing Garbage Bins Happen?

Understanding the root causes of overflowing garbage bins empowers us to prevent this unsightly and unsanitary issue. Here, we explore the common culprits behind overflowing bins, allowing us to address them proactively.

  • Parties and Social Events: While undeniably joyful, hosting social gatherings can generate a surprising amount of waste. Disposable tableware, crafting materials, and gift wrap all contribute to a rapid rise in trash volume. A standard kitchen bin might struggle to keep pace, so consider opting for reusable alternatives or designating a larger bin specifically for such events.
  • The Missed Trash Day: Life throws curveballs, and a missed trash day can double the amount of garbage awaiting the next pickup. To avoid this scenario, establish a visual reminder system, like a calendar note or phone alert, to stay on top of collection schedules.
  • Moving: Moving often coincides with a surge in waste – discarded boxes, unwanted furniture, and miscellaneous packing materials. The added stress of unfamiliar collection schedules can exacerbate the problem. To navigate the moving maze, plan for proper disposal methods like a rented dumpster or early drop-off at a local recycling center.
  • Not Recycling: While regionally diverse, recycling programs offer a powerful tool to minimize landfill waste and reduce pressure on our regular garbage bins. Even in the absence of a municipal program, consider contracting a private waste disposal company for a separate recycling pickup. Targeting bulky items like cardboard boxes and plastic containers, often the space hogs in our bins, can significantly improve bin capacity.

By recognizing these common pitfalls, we can adopt a proactive approach to waste management, ensuring cleaner neighborhoods, a reduced environmental impact, and a stress-free experience when dealing with our overflowing companions – the garbage bins.

How to Prevent Overflowing Garbage Cans?

Trash Chute

Residents, to get rid of waste in their homes, dump it on and around already full public garbage bins. To prevent this, residential building owners and contractors must install trash chutes in buildings. Trash chutes are large waste receptacles that have an opening on each floor and a storage space at the bottom to collect the waste. They ensure that the waste is deposited in a closed container to avoid contamination and pests until the respective garbage collectors collect the waste. They are a very effective waste-handling solution to eliminate the problems discussed above.

Trash Compactors

Cardboard, glass shards, metal scraps, etc. must be compacted using trash compactors to reduce the size of waste. Moreover, trash compactors keep our household waste much neater and safer, which then results in improved levels of sanitation. After all, unwanted pests won’t breed in the waste if it is neatly packed away. Trash compactors also make waste handling much easier and more convenient, and therefore, should be seriously considered.

Composting

Food scraps and yard trimmings make up 26% of the waste produced in the US. With initiatives such as creating community compost pits, not only can you reduce your waste contribution, but you can also turn organic waste into useful compost for soil and plants. While contractors and building owners can get compost pits installed, it is the responsibility of the residents to separate waste such as shredded twigs, leaves, and kitchen scraps so that they can be decomposed quickly. Many communities that do not need compost are also doing their bit because of the sense of responsibility towards our planet.

A collective effort is required to tackle the problem of poor waste disposal and overflowing garbage cans. Therefore, take initiative, appoint leaders, talk to the professionals in charge, and motivate others to bring about the change you need to see around you.