After reading Waste Wars by Alexander Clapp, one's perception of throwing away items like plastic bags or old mobile phones will change. The book reveals alarming truths about where waste ends up, primarily in poor countries from the rich world.
The more difficult an item is to recycle, the higher the likelihood it will end up in sub-Saharan Africa. As rich countries became more environmentally conscious, they promoted recycling, but not all waste can be easily recycled.
Where do you think they end up?
Some waste, like unwanted cabbage leaves, can easily return to the earth, but other items have more problematic afterlives.
Author summary: Waste Wars exposes the dark side of waste disposal.