Report on Illegal Disposal of Everyday Items in Nevada with Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

During the summer months in Nevada, extreme heat conditions necessitate proper management of household waste to protect health and the environment. This report highlights fourteen everyday items that are illegal to dispose of in Nevada, underscoring the importance of responsible waste management aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

14 Everyday Items Illegal to Dispose of in Nevada

1. Mercury Thermometers

   Mercury is highly toxic and can contaminate air, water, and soil. Improper disposal risks releasing mercury vapors harmful to humans and animals.

2. Household Batteries

   Contain harmful chemicals such as cadmium, lead, and lithium. Improper disposal can leach toxins into soil and groundwater, posing environmental and health risks.

3. Antifreeze

   Contains ethylene glycol, toxic to humans and animals. Improper disposal contaminates soil and water, harming wildlife and ecosystems.

4. Car Batteries

   Full of sulfuric acid and lead, which are highly toxic. Dumping in landfills can cause corrosion and pollution of the environment.

5. Prescription Drugs

   Improper disposal can contaminate water supplies and lead to misuse or abuse.

6. Fireworks

   Contain explosive materials and chemicals posing fire hazards and environmental harm if discarded improperly.

7. Electronics

   Contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium. Recycling prevents soil and water pollution.

8. Fluorescent Light Bulbs

   Contain mercury requiring special disposal to prevent contamination.

9. Gasoline

   Highly flammable and can cause fires or groundwater contamination if disposed of improperly.

10. Motor Oil

    Contains hazardous chemicals and heavy metals harmful to soil, water, ecosystems, and wildlife.

11. Lawn Chemicals

    Pesticides and herbicides toxic to wildlife and plants; improper disposal contaminates water and ecosystems.

12. Asbestos

    A known carcinogen causing respiratory problems; improper disposal risks airborne fiber release.

13. Tires

    Damage landfill liners, take up space, and are highly flammable, posing fire hazards and environmental risks.

14. Paint

    Contains toxic chemicals like lead and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contaminating air, water, and soil if not properly disposed of.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Proper disposal prevents exposure to toxic substances, reducing health risks.
• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Prevents contamination of water supplies from hazardous waste.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Encourages responsible waste management contributing to safer, cleaner communities.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promotes recycling and proper disposal to minimize environmental impact.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – Protects terrestrial ecosystems from pollution and toxic substances.

Recommendations for Residents

• Identify and segregate hazardous waste items listed above.
• Utilize designated collection centers and recycling programs for proper disposal.
• Educate community members on environmental laws and health risks associated with improper disposal.
• Support policies and initiatives that promote sustainable waste management practices.

By adhering to these guidelines, Nevada residents contribute to the achievement of the SDGs, ensuring environmental protection, public health, and sustainable community development.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article highlights the health risks posed by improper disposal of hazardous materials such as mercury, asbestos, and toxic chemicals.
2. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Improper disposal of items like antifreeze, batteries, and motor oil can contaminate water supplies.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The article focuses on proper waste management and disposal of hazardous household items to reduce environmental harm.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Preventing pollution and toxic waste leakage contributes to climate resilience and environmental protection.
5. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Protecting soil and ecosystems from contamination by hazardous waste supports terrestrial ecosystem health.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
2. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.4: Achieve environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle.
   • Target 12.5: Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies and strategies, including pollution control.
5. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 3.9
   • Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution, and exposure to hazardous chemicals (implied by health risks from toxic waste).
2. Indicator for SDG 6.3
   • Proportion of wastewater safely treated and reduction in pollutant levels in water bodies (implied by contamination risks from improper disposal).
3. Indicators for SDG 12.4 and 12.5
   • Number of parties to international multilateral environmental agreements on hazardous waste and chemicals (implied by legal restrictions).
   • Amount of waste generated per capita and proportion recycled (implied by emphasis on proper disposal and recycling).
4. Indicator for SDG 15.1
   • Proportion of land degraded over total land area (implied by soil contamination concerns).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: catcountryutah.com