The correct option is (d).
Explanation
Waste management strategies emphasize the principles of the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Solid waste comprises various materials, categorized broadly into biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. While biodegradability refers to decomposition by biological agents, recyclability refers to the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Glass bottles are 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity. They can also be cleaned and reused multiple times before being recycled.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Metal scraps (such as iron, aluminum, and copper) are highly valuable in the recycling industry. They can be melted down and reformed into new metal products repeatedly, saving significant energy compared to primary extraction.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Old newspapers are a primary source of paper recycling. They can be pulped and processed to create new paper products, cardboard, or insulation materials.
- Statement 4 is Correct: Plastic bags, typically made from thermoplastics (like polyethylene), can be reused for storage or waste disposal. Furthermore, they can be recycled into pellets to manufacture new plastic items, although the process is often more complex and costly compared to metals or glass.
Key Takeaway:
Most inorganic solid wastes, including glass, metals, and thermoplastics, possess properties that allow them to be processed and reintroduced into the production cycle, distinguishing them from waste that must be incinerated or landfilled.