The document defines key terms related to solid waste management such as waste, solid wastes, waste management, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification. It describes the public health importance and environmental and health impacts of solid waste. The functional elements of solid waste management systems are collection, transfer, resource recovery/processing, and disposal. Methods of waste treatment and disposal include composting, incineration, and sanitary landfilling. The waste management hierarchy emphasizes reducing, reusing, recycling, and recovering waste before disposal. Hazardous and healthcare wastes require special management due to risks of disease transmission and environmental contamination.