Some argue that domestic waste is not recycled enough and only strict laws and their implementation by the authority can deal with this issue. Although I believe government interference is essential to increase recycling the waste from homes. I also think that without social awareness, this might not be a sustainable solution.
Legal enforcement can be an effective initiative by the government to increase the domestic waste recycling. With the law being implemented, people will be careful with their waste and might act accordingly. For instance, Germany has already made it mandatory to segregate the plastic, papers, bottles and other home waste and put it in their dedicated bins. This law has improved the recycling situation in Germany, making them a pioneer in recycling home waste.
But relying solely on government’s action might not ensure a proper result. If the society relies on the government alone, people’s mindset and their attitude may not improve towards recycling. Without proper cooperation from the people, new issues regarding recycling will remain unchallenged. For instance, Japan initiated a community-based program to educate the citizens on the proper way and benefit of recycling and waste segregation which improved their overall situation with the domestic waste. If all the stakeholders do not understand the root causes and the advantages of a particular task, the solution might remain ineffective.
For a sustainable solution towards recycling and waste management, proper implementation of laws by the government is necessary. But without people’s participation and understanding, we might fail to achieve a sustainable system. So we should focus on a combining effort with social awareness and legal measures by the government.