The study was published in the journal Atmospheric Environment. Researchers took samples of emission from 24 roadside garbage fires in urban Bengaluru. Next, they tested the collected particles for toxicity through a chemical analysis and by applying them to cultured cells. While the results showing the high concentration of particles near the fires resulted in 1,000 times more toxic exposure to nearby humans — due to various organic compounds burning in each fire — the test filters turned into different colours, making a rainbow of toxins. The wide variability found in the fumes possibly stems from the trash piles containing many different organic and plastic materials, the researchers said. It is high time people are made aware that the fire burning near their house is hazardous for their health. What needs to be done is to ensure there is proper waste management.

What is waste management?

It is the collection, transportation, disposal or recycling and monitoring of waste. This term is assigned to the waste material that is produced through human activity. 

How Can You Reduce Waste?

- Use reusable totes than plastic shopping bags: Reusable shopping bags and totes are smart alternatives to plastic grocery bags. Yes, they're more environmentally friendly too. But since they're roomier and more durable than the flimsy, plastic counterparts, they're also easier to carry.

- Avoid plastic cups and water bottles, use reusable bottles: It is estimated that Americans throw away close to 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour. It’s largely a process of unnecessary waste; whether you’re at work, working out, or hiking around the world, there exists an alternative that, in many cases, is more practical than your standard plastic bottle. If you can’t find one up to your taste, there are plenty of reusable water bottles to consider. 

- Swap incandescent and CFL light bulbs for LED ones: This one may vary depending on how often you actually use your lights, but LED light bulbs are longer-lasting, safer, and more energy efficient than their incandescent and CFL cousins. They still cost more upfront, but their prices have dropped significantly over the past few years. If you use them often, you'll shave a bit off your energy bill, and you shouldn't have to worry about replacements for well over a decade.

- Swap disposable coffee filters for reusable ones: Here's an easy way to make your cup of coffee a little greener. Try coffee pots with removable and reusable filters. 

- Swap soda cans and bottles for a sustainable soda maker: All those soda cans you drink add up. While recycling them is going to be a good move, if you're looking to take your sustainable living one step further, you might consider investing in a machine that lets you make your own soda – just the amount you need.

- It is time for you to join hands and make a move. There is no hard and fast rule you have to follow. Minor changes in your lifestyle can lead to changes around you. Going by the way air quality has taken a beating in and around us, taking small steps at a time can lead to better results. So, the next time you see someone light a fire to that dump of waste around you, make sure you either stop them or report the matter to the concerned authorities. After all, it is the air you breathe that will affect you the most! 

At a time when waste management has evolved as a major challenge in urban cities, a Gurgaon-based family is doing their bit by recycling over 90% of their waste to ensure zero waste management. They recycle every kind of waste. IT entrepreneur Sunil Pachar (46) has been segregating dry and wet waste at his Gurgaon home. He was inspired by Mumbai-based microbiologist and bio-composting expert Jayant Joshi, who suggested using compost baskets. Currently, the family recycles everything but plastic objects and dry waste . His daughter, Divyanshi (8), collects pencil shavings from her school to add to their compost basket.

What measures can you take as a citizen to avoid burning of trash? Share your suggestions in the comments below...