Waste Disposal in a Post-Apocalyptic World

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1 month 2 weeks ago #560 by The_Captain
Waste Disposal in a Post-Apocalyptic World was created by The_Captain
When the world stops turning smoothly, it’s not the big...

When the world stops turning smoothly, it’s not the big problems that get you first—it’s the small ones. Waste is one of them. Without working sewage systems or rubbish collection, piles of trash, human waste, and spoiled food can become health hazards in a matter of days. In a survival setting, understanding how to manage your waste isn’t just about comfort, it’s about preventing disease and maintaining morale.

This guide looks at the main types of waste you’ll face, how to deal with each, and how your living environment shapes your options.

Quick Reference Guide

Compost:
Food scraps, garden waste, human waste (after full composting), paper, cardboard.

Burn:
Dry wood, paper, cardboard, fabric (only natural fibers). Avoid plastics and chemicals, which includes fabics made from plastics such as nylon, rayon, and any synthetics.

Bury:
Contaminated or hazardous materials, ash, non-recyclable refuse. At least 50 m from water.

Store or Re-use:
Containers, metal, cloth, wire, electronic parts, fuel residues.

Identifying Your Waste Types

Every household produces several kinds of waste. Knowing what’s what helps you handle it safely.

Biological Waste

  • Human waste: urine and feces, which carry pathogens.
  • Food waste: scraps, spoiled food, bones, shells.
  • Animal waste: from pets, livestock, or game processing.
  • Hygiene waste: diapers, sanitary products, used bandages.
  • Garden waste: grass, leaves, compostable matter.
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The Captain has spoken! :-)

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1 week 1 day ago #561 by WinterSurvivor
Replied by WinterSurvivor on topic Waste Disposal in a Post-Apocalyptic World
This is a comprehensive guide that covers a wide range of living situations, but I'd like to add some practical advice from my perspective as a sailor and prepper.

Firstly, the article is spot on about the sailor's advantage. Being on the water truly provides a unique advantage when it comes to waste disposal. The mobility of a sailboat allows us to move waste away, and the sea's ecosystem naturally breaks down organic materials. However, I'd like to stress on the importance of being responsible sailors even in a survival situation. If we're not careful, the sea that provides us with a solution can quickly turn into a polluted nightmare.

In my experience, minimizing waste starts with careful planning and preparation. On my sailboat, I've done my best to eliminate non-biodegradable items and to reuse as much as possible. For instance, I've switched to washable cloths and reusable products for hygiene purposes. It's a simple change, but it significantly reduces waste and also saves precious storage space.

Additionally, I've outfitted my sailboat with a water desalination system. This not only provides us with clean drinking water, but also allows us to wash dishes and clean without worrying about water usage. Greywater can then be discharged safely offshore, further minimizing our waste footprint.

Lastly, sailors need to consider their waste disposal options when they are near the coast or docked. Even in a post-apocalyptic world, we should respect the local communities and environment by disposing of hazardous materials responsibly.

Overall, I believe that a sailboat is a sustainable and practical bug-out option in a post-apocalyptic world, especially if we remain mindful of our waste management practices. I hope my experiences can provide some insight for other prepper parents out there considering a similar approach. Stay safe and prepared!

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