"Poor Waste Disposal at School with a focus on health and diseases: 1. Problem Identification 1.1 Description Poor waste disposal is a significant issue in many schools, leading to health problems and environmental concerns. Improperly disposed waste can attract pests, create unpleasant odors, and contaminate water sources. 1.2 Brief Statement of Intent The intent of this project is to investigate the current waste disposal practices at school, identify the problems, and propose a scientific solution to mitigate the issues. 1.3 Stating the Main Idea or Topic The main topic of this project is to design a scientific waste disposal system for schools, focusing on health and diseases prevention. 1.4 Design Specification 1. The system should be able to segregate different types of waste (organic, inorganic, and recyclable). 2. The system should minimize the risk of pest infestation and disease transmission. 2. Investigations of Related Ideas 2.1 Investigations 1. *Waste Management Practices in Schools*: A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the importance of proper waste management in schools to prevent the spread of diseases. 2. *Impact of Poor Waste Disposal on Health*: Research by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that poor waste disposal can lead to the spread of diseases, pest infestations, and environmental pollution. Merit Proper waste management can reduce the risk of diseases and improve the overall health and well-being of students and staff. Demerit Poor waste disposal can lead to increased costs for waste management and cleanup, as well as negative impacts on the environment. 3. Generation of Ideas 3.1 Possible Solutions 1. *Implementing a Segregation System*: Installing separate bins for organic, inorganic, and recyclable waste can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and minimize the risk of disease transmission. 2. *Composting Organic Waste*: Composting organic waste can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and create a nutrient-rich fertilizer for school gardens. Evidence of Ideas Both solutions are supported by research on waste management and disease prevention. Merits 1. Segregation system: Reduces waste sent to landfills, minimizes disease transmission risk. 2. Composting: Creates nutrient-rich fertilizer, reduces waste sent to landfills. Demerits 1. Segregation system: Requires education and training for students and staff. 2. Composting: Requires regular maintenance and monitoring. 4. Selection of Choice and Refinement 4.1 Indication of Choice The chosen solution is implementing a segregation system with separate bins for organic, inorganic, and recyclable waste. 4.2 Justification 1. Reduces waste sent to landfills and minimizes disease transmission risk. 2. Encourages students and staff to take responsibility for waste management. 4.3 Refinements 1. *Color-Coded Bins*: Using color-coded bins can help students and staff easily identify which type of waste goes into each bin. 2. *Education and Training*: Providing education and training on proper waste segregation can ensure that students and staff understand the importance of proper waste management. 3. *Regular Monitoring*: Regular monitoring of waste disposal practices can help identify areas for improvement and ensure the system is working effectively. 4.4 Presentation The segregation system will be presented to the school administration and students through a poster campaign and interactive workshops. 5. Presentation of the Final Solution 5.1 Working Drawing The working drawing will include the design of the segregation system, including the placement of color-coded bins and signage. 5.2 Artefacts The artefacts will include: - Color-coded bins with clear signage - Posters and educational materials - A composting bin for organic waste 6. Evaluation 6.1 Relevance to Brief The segregation system addresses the problem of poor waste disposal at school and provides a scientific solution to mitigate the issues. 6.2 Problems Encountered One problem encountered was resistance from students and staff to change their waste disposal habits. 6.3 Solution Suggested Providing education and training on proper waste segregation and the importance of waste management can help overcome resistance to change. 6.4 Recommendations 1. Regular monitoring and evaluation of waste disposal practices to ensure the system is working effectively. 2. Continuous education and training for students and staff on proper waste segregation and management. 3. Consider implementing a composting program for organic waste to further reduce waste sent to landfills.