Shredding solid waste typically reduces the volume to about what percentage of the original bulk?

Shredding solid waste is a common process used to decrease its volume and improve the efficiency of subsequent waste management practices. When solid waste is shredded, the physical size of the materials is significantly reduced, allowing for more compact storage and easier handling.

The correct answer indicates that shredding typically reduces the solid waste volume to about 40 percent of its original bulk. This means that when solid waste is processed through shredding, it can be reduced to approximately two-fifths of its size. This reduction in volume is crucial in waste management as it allows for more waste to fit in the same space, reduces transportation costs, and can enhance the effectiveness of further processing and recycling efforts.

In addition, this level of volume reduction can streamline the disposal process at landfills or waste treatment facilities, contributing to more sustainable waste management practices. Understanding this percentage is significant for environmental health specialists when planning waste reduction strategies and resource recovery programs.