ABSTRACT
It is commonly accepted that the annual generation of high amounts of waste signifi cantly enhances the already serious environmental problem. ‘Traditional’ waste treatment methods, such as waste disposal and incineration, further enhance the emissions of toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases, while seepage from waste disposal sites contributes to the pollution of ground water and water courses. Specifi cally, the two most important hazards for humans and animals are attributed to the heavy metal and solvent content of the wastes. Additionally, another issue arising due to the disposal of wastes is their accumulation in the food chain and the subsequent deterioration of environmental conditions (Bruvoll and Ibenholt 1997).
