Question 1

With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements: 1. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum. 2. Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Accepted Answer

The bio-toilets found under the train lavatories use a specific type of bacteria to break down human waste, creating CO2, CH4, and non-corrosive water as byproducts. This process differs from the decomposition initiated by a fungal inoculum mentioned in the first statement. The end products released into the atmosphere are not just ammonia and water vapor, as stated in the second statement. Therefore, neither of the given statements is correct.

Question 2

As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct?

Accepted Answer

According to the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, waste generators are required to separate their waste into three categories: biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and domestic hazardous wastes. The rules also outline criteria for selecting sites for waste disposal and processing facilities.

Question 3

Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste? 1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3. Chromium 4. Heptachlor 5. Mercury 6. Lead 7. Plutonium Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Accepted Answer

When old computers or their parts are disposed of improperly, certain harmful substances are released into the environment as electronic waste (e-waste). These substances include beryllium, cadmium, chromium, heptachlor, mercury, lead, and plutonium. The correct answer is option (b) which includes elements 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.

The presence of harmful elements like lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, selenium, and hexavalent chromium in electronic waste categorizes it as hazardous waste.

Question 4

'R2 Code of Practices' constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of

Accepted Answer

The 'R2 Code of Practices' serves as a tool to encourage the adoption of environmentally responsible practices in the electronics recycling industry. This code focuses on promoting safe and sustainable methods for managing electronic waste, ensuring proper disposal, recycling, and minimizing environmental impact. It aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and compliance within the industry to address the challenges associated with electronic waste management.

Question 5

Consider the following statements: Statement I: Circular economy reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases. Statement II: Circular economy reduces the use of raw materials as inputs. Statement III: Circular economy reduces wastage in the production process. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Accepted Answer

Circular economy aims to reduce the consumption of raw materials and minimize waste generation by promoting reuse, repair, and recycling. By doing so, it helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction, processing, and transportation of raw materials, thereby contributing to mitigating climate change. Hence, both Statement II and Statement III are correct and support Statement I in the context of circular economy principles.

Waste Management — UPSC Previous Year Questions

Year-wise Distribution

Sample Questions

Waste Management — UPSC Previous Year Questions

Year-wise Distribution

Sample Questions