What does encapsulation involve in waste management?

Encapsulation in waste management refers to the process of filling containers with waste materials and sealing them to prevent any interaction with the environment. This method is particularly important for managing hazardous wastes that must not leak or pose a risk to public health and the ecosystem. By sealing these containers, encapsulation ensures that toxic materials do not contaminate soil or water sources, thereby safeguarding both human and environmental health.

The effectiveness of encapsulation lies in its ability to contain potentially dangerous substances securely, which is crucial when dealing with items like chemical, pharmaceutical, or biomedical waste. Implementing this strategy minimizes the potential exposure to harmful elements that could occur if the waste were left open or improperly stored.

Other methods mentioned, like burning waste, mixing with chemicals, or composting, address waste management but serve different purposes and may not offer the same level of containment or prevention against environmental hazards as encapsulation does.