Causes

Human societies generate solid waste [trash] as a byproduct of contemporary life and related economic activity.

One distinct characteristic of trash is that it is not readily biodegradable.

Plastics particularly stand out as the culprit in the "what to do with our trash" predicament.

Effects

Solid waste needs to be managed, that is, organized, collected, transported, disposed of [usually by additional selection and burial], and monitored for compliance with existing regulations [Solid waste management is big business].

In many instances, particularly in developing countries, solid waste is disposed of improperly [by indiscriminate burning, without prior selection], or by dumping it in open pits.

We are running out of places where to put our own trash.

Solution

Organize the solid waste stream [Separate paper, glass, plastics, and food residues].

Reduce the solid waste stream [Composting of food residues and lawn-and-garden litter].

Reuse organic materials [wood, cardboard].

Recycle the chemical elements or constituents [iron, aluminum].

Develop innovative packaging practices to reduce volume of waste stream.