Why do HICs/LICs produce waste?

Wealthier population leads to greater disposable income

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Greater demand for new products (consumer society)

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New items are 'heavily' packaged to attract the customer and single use items are preferred for convenience

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Old items are replaced before they are broken or obsolete (throw-away society)

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Less effort made to recycle and reuse old items

Lower wages means less disposable income

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Purchases are expected to last and are limited to essentials - single use items are rare

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Minimum packaging is used to keep prices to a minimum

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Items are only replaced if they are beyond repair

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Every effort is made to recycle, repair and reuse old items