Question

Which of the following method is most suitable for safe disposal of hospital solid waste?

• A. Dumping
• B. Incineration
• C. Pyrolysis
• D. Composting

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Effective management of hospital solid waste is essential in environmental studies to mitigate health hazards and ecological damage. Such waste frequently comprises infectious, dangerous, and non-degradable substances requiring precise handling. The following disposal methods are considered:

• Dumping: This technique entails waste placement in landfills. It is a prevalent method for general refuse but inappropriate for hospital waste due to contamination and infection risks.
• Incineration: This method involves high-temperature combustion of waste, leading to sterilization and ash reduction. It is a viable option for hospital waste as it eliminates pathogens and substantially decreases waste volume.
• Pyrolysis: This high-temperature thermal decomposition of organic material occurs without oxygen. While effective for specific waste streams, it is less commonly employed for hospital waste compared to incineration.
• Composting: This biological process transforms organic waste into humus. It is suitable for organic materials but not for hazardous hospital waste owing to potential health dangers.

Consequently, incineration emerges as the most appropriate method for the secure disposal of hospital solid waste, effectively minimizing infection and contamination risks through pathogen destruction.