Which material constitutes the largest component of domestic solid waste by weight?

The largest component of domestic solid waste by weight is indeed paper. This can be attributed to the widespread use of paper products in various aspects of daily life, including packaging, newspapers, and office supplies. With the increasing consumption of these items, the accumulation of paper in waste becomes significant.

Paper waste tends to be heavier than materials like glass and metal, especially when considering the volume of paper generated in households. It’s important to note that while plastics have surged in production and use, they often constitute a significant volume in terms of units rather than weight. Moreover, metal and glass, while recyclable and present in the waste stream, do not match the sheer bulk and weight of discarded paper products typically found in domestic waste.

Understanding the composition of domestic solid waste is crucial for effective waste management strategies, including recycling programs, which heavily focus on minimizing paper waste through increased recycling efforts and promoting alternatives like digital documentation.