Rural and Urban Management of Toxic Aluminum Waste in Relation with Environmental Protection in Iasi County

Abstract

Aluminum in excess could cause diseases, affecting bones, brain, liver, heart, spleen, as well as muscles. Aluminum in higher concentrations is found in tap water since aluminum compounds are used for water treatment before being supplied. Furthermore, aluminum foils and coatings are used in the processes of cans and boxes packaging, especially for foods and beverages, taking into account its capacities as efficient barrier. The aim of the present studies was represented by the comparison of aluminum packaging waste generation in two areas from Iasi county, a rural and an urban one. Meanwhile, we compared the ratio of aluminum packaging waste and total packaging waste generation, as well as the ratio of aluminum packaging waste and total waste generation in the studied areas. We found a statistical significant difference of 71.31 % (as average) between the aluminum packaging waste quantities in urban and rural zones. Aluminum packaging waste was considered to be any packaging coated by or including aluminum. We were not able to differentiate the aluminum foil wrap from other parts of packaging. Moreover, it seems to exist a small difference of the ratios of aluminum packaging waste and total packaging waste generation in urban area and rural one, but not statistically significant. The selective recycling is almost impossible in rural zones, the lack of education and of means representing the major challenges. The difficulties in managing the waste having as an important component the aluminum packaging could increase the risks for human health.