Waste is any material or byproduct that is no longer wanted, useful or usable as originally intended. It is an expensive and often unavoidable result of human activity, encompassing everything from household garbage and food scraps to industrial byproducts and hazardous materials. How we choose to manage and dispose of that waste affects the air, land and water, which humans, plants and animals rely on for life.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources works with individuals, schools, businesses, industry and local governments to make sure they know how to safely collect, handle, store and dispose of both their solid and hazardous wastes. Of course, the ultimate goal is to reduce the amount of waste or prevent waste and pollution in the first place. Not only does reducing, reusing and recycling waste save valuable landfill space and natural resources, but it helps the state's economy by generating profit and supporting thousands of jobs.