What does the term 'blending' refer to in waste management?

The term 'blending' in waste management primarily refers to combining different waste streams to reduce toxicity or volume. This process is often employed to create a more manageable waste form by either diluting the hazardous properties of the waste or mixing it with other materials to facilitate treatment or disposal. Blending can effectively optimize waste handling and improve overall environmental safety by ensuring that the resultant mixture is less harmful or easier to manage than its individual components.

This concept is crucial in waste management, particularly for facilities that deal with multiple types of waste and need to minimize the risks associated with hazardous materials. By reducing toxicity or volume through blending, waste management practices can ensure compliance with regulations and enhance safety during subsequent handling and disposal processes.