CBSE Class 6 Science Chapter 16: Garbage In, Garbage Out NCERT Solutions

Solution:

(a) Redworms are excellent composters, but they can only break down organic or biodegradable waste. Materials like pieces of synthetic cloth, plastic bags, broken glass, aluminium wrappers, nails, and broken toys are non-biodegradable. These items cannot be decomposed by redworms and are therefore not converted into compost.

(b) Yes, it is common to find other organisms in a compost pit besides redworms. These can include spiders, small insects like ants and flies, millipedes, and various types of bacteria and fungi (moulds). These organisms also play a role in the decomposition process. While drawing pictures of these organisms can be helpful, identifying them accurately is key to understanding the ecosystem within the compost pit.

Solution:

(a) Garbage disposal is not solely the responsibility of the government; it is a shared responsibility involving every citizen. If individuals continue to generate large amounts of waste, especially non-biodegradable waste like plastics, it poses significant health risks and environmental pollution. Therefore, each person must contribute to reducing waste generation and ensuring proper disposal methods are followed.

(b) Yes, it is definitely possible to significantly reduce the problems associated with garbage disposal. This can be achieved by adopting practices such as using recyclable materials, minimizing the use of non-biodegradable items, and consciously reducing the overall amount of waste produced. Separating biodegradable waste (like food scraps) from non-biodegradable waste (like plastic) into different bins is a crucial step in managing waste effectively.

Solution:

(a) Leftover food at home can be utilized in several ways. A common practice is to feed it to stray animals, such as dogs or cows, that roam in the streets. Alternatively, if the food is organic and suitable, it can be added to a compost pit to create nutrient-rich soil.

(b) A banana leaf platter is a much better choice than a plastic plate. Banana leaves are natural, biodegradable, and decompose easily after use, causing no harm to the environment. In contrast, plastic plates are non-biodegradable, meaning they persist in the environment for very long periods, contributing to pollution and harming ecosystems. Therefore, opting for a banana leaf platter is a more environmentally responsible decision.

Solution:

(a) Most types of paper commonly found and used are recyclable. This includes newspapers, pages from notebooks, magazines, plain paper sheets, and envelopes. These papers can be collected and processed to make new paper products.

(b) When examined closely, especially with a lens, a difference can often be observed between a new sheet of paper and a recycled one. Recycled paper, particularly handmade recycled paper, may appear rougher in texture and might contain small specks or fibers that are not uniformly distributed. This is because the recycling process involves breaking down old paper fibers, which may not always result in the same smooth and uniform consistency as paper made from virgin pulp.

Solution:

(a) Various packaging materials are used for different purposes:

Cardboard: Commonly used for boxes to package items like shoes, soaps, bulbs, and other consumer goods.

Plastic Bags: Used for packaging toys, sarees, and as shopping bags due to their flexibility and durability.

Wooden Boxes: Often used for transporting and packaging fruits, hardware, and other heavier items.

Jute Bags: Suitable for school bags, shopping bags, and carrying vegetables, offering a sturdy and reusable option.

(b) Packaging material can be reduced by reusing it. For instance, instead of discarding a sturdy cardboard box after receiving a product, it can be reused for storage or shipping another item. Similarly, reusable shopping bags (like jute or cloth bags) reduce the need for single-use plastic packaging.

(c) Once upon a time, a delicious chocolate bar was made. To protect it and make it look appealing, it was first wrapped in a shiny foil, then placed inside a colorful cardboard box, which was then sealed in a plastic wrapper for extra protection. When Maya bought the chocolate, she eagerly unwrapped it, discarding the plastic wrapper, then tearing open the cardboard box, and finally peeling off the foil. All these layers, meant to enhance its presentation and shelf life, ended up in the dustbin, contributing to the growing pile of garbage. This unnecessary, multi-layered packaging, common for many snacks and products, significantly increases the amount of waste generated daily, posing a challenge for disposal and environmental health.