Waste management is the collection, transport, processing or disposal of waste materials, usually ones produced by human activity, in an effort to reduce their effect on human health or local aesthetics or amenity. The general environment consists of segments of demographic, economic, political legal, socio-cultural, and technological segments that have an impact on a firm. These firms have no control over these elements but must be aware of external challenges and opportunities to operate efficiently.

Improper handling of hazardous waste may result in serious health problems for those who consume contaminated water, air or food. Problems can include cancer, nerve damage and birth defects. Hazardous waste that makes its way into the water table may be nearly impossible to remedy. Cleanup and remediation costs to the responsible parties and the public may run into the millions and even billions of dollars.

Waste Management crosses many disciplines; it is of importance to civil engineers, town planners, industrial ecologists, environmentalists, political scientists, social scientists, economists and technologists. It is impossible to consider societal development without giving consideration to waste management, whether this is in terms of providing a basic service where waste is removed with minimal external impact, or adopting more sustainable practices and incorporating the view that waste represents a valuable resource.

There are a number of significant pressures that are currently driving the changes in waste management, however the most significant driver legislation and policy. The year 2000 saw the launch of the national waste strategies, which included a number of targets specifically aimed at increasing recycling and diversifying waste management away from the more traditional disposal routes.

There are various ways of dealing with the materials. Landfills have been the most common for years. If handled properly, they can be inexpensive and effective. However, with the growing population, available space has become a problem for them in some places. Incineration is also a popular technique. It works well in places that have a limited amount of land space available. The material is heated to get rid of it. However, there have been some questions about the danger of possible hazardous emissions using this technique.