| Summary: | Waste accumulation poses significant challenges to the environment and human health. Demographic factors reveal that rural areas tend to accumulate less waste than urban locations due to lower population densities. However, insufficient environmental awareness remains a significant contributor to improper waste management and selective waste separation worldwide. The detrimental effects of waste accumulation are of concern, including groundwater and soil contamination, as well as health risks associated with hazardous substances. A recent study based on data from the Chief Inspectorate of Environmental Protection in Poland sheds light on the impacts of waste generation and collection. The findings indicate that on average, each citizen in Poland produces approximately 14 kg of electronic waste annually. Furthermore, waste collection has seen a notable increase of 710.75 Mg due to population growth, exacerbating the waste management challenge. To address these pressing issues, it is crucial to implement sustainable waste management practices, enhance environmental awareness, and invest in waste infrastructure. By adopting responsible waste management strategies, we can mitigate the negative impacts of waste accumulation, safeguard the environment, and promote human well-being. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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