Solid waste 3R hierarchy – UGC NET Question

The 3R hierarchy gives highest priority to avoiding waste generation at source. Reducing consumption and material use comes first, followed by reusing items to extend their life. Recycling, though important, ranks after these because it still requires collection and processing. This order minimises environmental impacts and resource use most effectively.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because starting with recycling ignores the greater benefits of reducing and reusing before waste is created.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it reflects the widely accepted order in waste-management policies.

Option C:
Option C changes the priority by placing reuse first, but reduction is conceptually more fundamental.

Option D:
Option D starts with recycling again, which does not align with the standard hierarchy.