Look no further than your garbage can!

Solid Waste is as old as human civilization, yet we are still grappling with the best way to manage the tremendous amount of waste we generate. This problem will require even more creative and dedicated minds (like yours?) in the future as we create more throwaways and have less landfill space. Some of the topics you might explore are: Which materials are easiest to recycle? How can you overcome people's resistance to building a new landfill? (This is sometimes called the "NIMBY" effect - "Not in MY Back Yard!") What are some better ways to package products so that they don't create as much waste? What are some of the ways waste has been handled in history, and can we use or modify those methods today? What are some alternatives to toxic chemicals?

In past Science Fairs, not a lot of attention has been paid to Solid Waste (that means less competition!) but the need for research is growing. Will you be the next great "garbologist"?

For more information on where to find resources, give us a call: City of Waco Solid Waste Department (Megan Miller, Project Coordinator) 299-2602.