UPSC CSE Prelims
Solid Waste and E-Waste Management Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Practice solved questions for Solid Waste and E-Waste Management with detailed step-by-step solutions, key insights, and trend analysis for UPSC CSE PRELIMS.
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With reference to polyethylene terephthalate, the use of which is so widespread in our daily lives, consider the following statements:
- Its fibres can be blended with wool and cotton fibres to reinforce their properties.
- Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage.
- Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products.
- Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 1 — 1 and 3
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a versatile polymer widely used in textiles and packaging. Statements 1 and 3 are correct as PET fibres can be blended with natural fibres to enhance properties, and PET bottles are highly recyclable. Statements 2 and 4 are incorrect because not all PET containers are suitable for storing all types of alcoholic beverages (especially high-proof spirits or at elevated temperatures due to potential chemical leaching), and incineration of PET inevitably produces greenhouse gas emissions, primarily CO₂.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: PET fibres (polyester) are commonly blended with wool and cotton to improve wrinkle resistance, strength, and durability in textile applications.
❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: While PET containers can store some alcoholic beverages, they are not suitable for all types, particularly high-alcohol content spirits or beverages stored at high temperatures, as chemicals may leach from the plastic.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: PET bottles are among the most recycled plastics globally and can be reprocessed into new bottles, polyester clothing, carpets, automotive parts, and construction materials.
❌ Statement 4 – Incorrect: Incineration of PET releases greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide and potentially toxic compounds; it is not an environmentally friendly disposal method without causing emissions.
📝 Short Notes: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
- Chemical Formula: (C₁₀H₈O₄)ₙ – a thermoplastic polymer resin of the polyester family
- Common Uses: Beverage bottles, food containers, synthetic fibres (polyester), packaging films, and engineering resins
- Recycling Code: #1 (PETE or PET) – one of the most widely recycled plastics worldwide
- Textile Applications: PET fibres (polyester) are blended with natural fibres like cotton and wool to enhance durability, wrinkle resistance, and moisture-wicking properties
- Recyclability: Can be mechanically or chemically recycled into rPET (recycled PET) for new bottles, clothing, carpets, and industrial materials
- Environmental Concerns: Non-biodegradable; incineration releases CO₂ and other pollutants; microplastic generation; requires proper waste management
- Storage Limitations: Not suitable for high-temperature storage or high-proof alcoholic beverages due to potential chemical leaching (acetaldehyde, antimony)
- Advantages: Lightweight, shatter-resistant, excellent barrier properties for gases and moisture, cost-effective, and energy-efficient to produce
R2 Code of Practices constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 1 — environmentally responsible practices in electronics recycling industry.
The R2 (Responsible Recycling) Code of Practices is a comprehensive set of standards specifically designed for the electronics recycling industry to ensure environmentally sound and socially responsible handling of electronic waste. It provides guidelines for data security, material handling, downstream vendor management, and worker health and safety in e-waste recycling operations.
📝 Short Notes: R2 Code of Practices
- Full Form: R2 stands for Responsible Recycling, developed for electronics recycling industry.
- Purpose: Establishes standards for safe, ethical, and environmentally responsible recycling of electronic equipment and e-waste.
- Key Areas Covered: Data security and destruction, material handling, downstream vendor accountability, environmental health and safety, worker protection.
- Certification: R2 certification is recognized globally as a mark of responsible e-waste recycling practices.
- Focus on E-Waste: Addresses growing concerns about toxic materials in electronics (lead, mercury, cadmium) and promotes proper disposal and recycling methods.
Bisphenol A (BPA) , a cause of concern, is a structural/key component in the manufacture of which of the following kinds of plastics?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — Polycarbonate
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a key structural component in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics. Polycarbonates are widely used in consumer products such as water bottles, food storage containers, eyeglass lenses, and CDs/DVDs. BPA has raised significant health concerns as it can act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with the body's hormonal system.
📝 Short Notes: Types of Plastics and BPA
| Plastic Type | Common Uses | Contains BPA? |
|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate (PC) | Water bottles, food containers, eyeglass lenses, CDs/DVDs, baby bottles | Yes – BPA is a key component |
| Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | Beverage bottles, food packaging, synthetic fibers | No |
| Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) | Plastic bags, squeeze bottles, container lids | No |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Pipes, flooring, wire insulation, medical tubing | No |
| High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | Milk jugs, detergent bottles, toys | No |
- BPA Health Concerns: Acts as endocrine disruptor, mimics estrogen, linked to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and metabolic disorders
- BPA-Free Alternatives: Many manufacturers now produce BPA-free polycarbonates or use alternative plastics
- Regulation: Several countries have banned BPA in baby bottles and food contact materials
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Steel slag can be the material for which of the following?
- Construction of base road
- Improvement of agricultural soil
- Production of cement
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 4 — 1, 2 and 3 only
Steel slag, a by-product of steel manufacturing, has multiple applications in construction, agriculture, and cement production. All three statements correctly identify valid uses of steel slag.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: Steel slag is widely used in road base construction due to its high strength, durability, excellent drainage properties, and cost-effectiveness.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: Steel slag can be used as a soil amendment in agriculture to improve drainage, provide essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium, correct soil pH, and enhance soil structure.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Steel slag can be used as a partial substitute for limestone and other raw materials in cement production, reducing environmental impact and conserving natural resources.
📝 Short Notes: Steel Slag Utilization
- Definition: Steel slag is a by-product generated during steel manufacturing in furnaces, consisting primarily of calcium, iron, silicon, and magnesium oxides.
- Road Construction: Used as aggregate in asphalt concrete, road base material, and railway ballast due to high abrasion resistance and load-bearing capacity.
- Agricultural Use: Acts as a soil conditioner, neutralizes acidic soils, supplies micronutrients, and improves soil permeability.
- Cement Industry: Can replace 10-15% of clinker in cement production, reducing CO₂ emissions and energy consumption.
- Other Applications: Used in wastewater treatment, coastal protection structures, and as a raw material for mineral wool production.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces landfill waste, conserves natural resources, and supports circular economy principles in steel industry.
In the context of which one of the following are the terms ‘pyrolysis and plasma gasification’ mentioned?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 4 — Waste-to-energy technologies
Pyrolysis and plasma gasification are advanced thermochemical waste-to-energy technologies that convert waste materials into useful energy products. Pyrolysis involves heating organic waste in an oxygen-deficient environment to produce syngas, bio-oil, and char, while plasma gasification uses extremely high temperatures (created by plasma torches) to break down waste into syngas rich in hydrogen and carbon monoxide. Both processes offer sustainable solutions for waste management while generating energy, making them key technologies in the circular economy framework.
📝 Short Notes: Waste-to-Energy Technologies
- Pyrolysis: Thermal decomposition of organic materials at 300-900°C in the absence of oxygen, producing syngas, bio-oil, and biochar. Used for plastic waste, biomass, and municipal solid waste treatment.
- Plasma Gasification: Uses plasma torches creating temperatures above 3000°C to convert waste into syngas and inert slag. Can process hazardous and mixed waste streams effectively.
- Products: Syngas (mixture of H₂, CO, CH₄) can be used for electricity generation, as chemical feedstock, or converted to liquid fuels.
- Advantages: Significant waste volume reduction (up to 90%), minimal landfill requirement, energy recovery, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional incineration.
- Applications in India: Several pilot projects and commercial plants are being explored under Swachh Bharat Mission and Smart Cities initiatives for sustainable waste management.
In India, ‘extended producer responsibility’ was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 3 — The e-Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2011
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) was first introduced as a key feature in India through the e-Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2011. Under EPR, producers of electrical and electronic equipment are made responsible for the collection, channelization, and proper disposal of e-waste generated from their products after end-of-life. This principle was later extended to other waste management rules including the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, but the e-Waste Rules of 2011 marked its first significant introduction in Indian environmental legislation.
📝 Short Notes: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in India
| Rules/Regulations | Year | EPR Provision |
|---|---|---|
| Bio-medical Waste Management and Handling Rules | 1998 | No EPR provision; focused on healthcare facility responsibilities |
| e-Waste Management and Handling Rules | 2011 | First introduction of EPR - Producers responsible for collection and channelization of e-waste |
| Plastic Waste Management Rules | 2016 | EPR extended to plastic waste - Producers, importers, brand owners accountable |
| e-Waste Management Rules (Revised) | 2016 | Strengthened EPR with collection targets and penalties |
| Battery Waste Management Rules | 2022 | EPR provisions for battery producers |
- EPR Concept: Makes producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially post-consumer waste management
- Objectives: Reduce environmental burden, promote circular economy, ensure proper waste disposal and recycling
- Implementation: Producers must establish collection mechanisms, collaborate with authorized recyclers, and meet specified collection targets
- Recent Developments: EPR certificates tradable on centralized portal; Digital tracking of waste collection
As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 3 — The Rules provide for exact and elaborate criteria for the identification of sites for landfills and waste processing facilities.
Simple Explanation:
The Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016 were notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to improve scientific waste management in India.
The Rules contain detailed provisions regarding the selection of sites for sanitary landfills and waste processing facilities, including distance from rivers, highways, habitations, and airports.
❌ Statement A – Incorrect: Waste generators are required to segregate waste into three categories—Biodegradable (wet), Non-biodegradable (dry), and Domestic Hazardous Waste, not five categories.
❌ Statement B – Incorrect: The Rules apply to a much wider range of areas, including urban local bodies, census towns, railways, airports, ports, SEZs, industrial townships, and pilgrimage sites.
✅ Statement C – Correct: Schedule I of the SWM Rules, 2016 provides detailed criteria for identifying suitable landfill and waste processing sites.
❌ Statement D – Incorrect: The Rules do not prohibit movement of waste across districts. In fact, they encourage regional facilities serving multiple local bodies.
In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation technique?
- It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature.
- Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms.
- Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 3 — 1 and 3 only
Bioremediation is a pollution control technique that uses living organisms, primarily microorganisms, to degrade or neutralize environmental contaminants by enhancing natural biodegradation processes. While genetic engineering can create specialized microorganisms for targeted bioremediation, heavy metals like cadmium and lead cannot be readily or completely treated through this technique as they are elements that cannot be biodegraded.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: Bioremediation works by enhancing the natural biodegradation processes that occur in nature, using microorganisms to break down pollutants in soil, water, or other environments.
❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: Heavy metals like cadmium and lead cannot be readily and completely treated by bioremediation because they are elemental pollutants that cannot be biodegraded, though they may be transformed or immobilized.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Genetic engineering techniques can be used to design microorganisms with enhanced or specific capabilities to target particular contaminants for more effective bioremediation.
With reference to ‘fly ash’ produced by the power plants using coal as fuel, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Fly ash can be used in the production of bricks for building construction.
- Fly ash can be used as a replacement for some of the Portland cement content of concrete.
- Fly ash is made up of silicon dioxide and calcium oxide only and does not contain any toxic elements.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
Detailed Explanation:
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: Fly ash possesses pozzolanic properties that enhance the strength and durability of bricks used in construction.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: Fly ash can replace 20-30% of Portland cement in concrete, improving workability, reducing heat of hydration, and increasing long-term strength.
❌ Statement 3 – Incorrect: While fly ash mainly contains SiO2, Al2O3, and CaO, it also contains trace amounts of heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, chromium, and lead.
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?
- Beryllium
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Heptachlor
- Mercury
- Lead
- Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Detailed Explanation:
E-waste from computers contains heavy metals used in electronic components: Beryllium (motherboards, connectors), Cadmium (rechargeable batteries, circuit boards), Chromium (corrosion protection in steel plates), Mercury (fluorescent lamps, switches), and Lead (solder, CRT monitors).
Heptachlor is an organochlorine insecticide, not used in electronics, and Plutonium is a radioactive element found only in nuclear applications, not in computers.
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