You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graph below shows four methods of dealing with waste in four countries. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

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Model Answer

The given column graph illustrates the data on four different waste disposal methods used in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain and the UK. A cursory glance at the graph is enough to make it clear that landfilling was the method by which Italy, Spain and the UK dispose of most of their waste, but recycling is used the most for waste disposal by the Netherlands.

According to the graph, the Netherlands recycles about two thirds of its waste. About 14% of its waste is composited, which means it is used as chemicals. About 8% and 10% is landfilled and burnt respectively.

Italy and Spain landfill about 40% of their waste and use approximately 18% of their waste as chemicals. Burning is the second most popular method used in these countries. Spain burns 30% of its waste, whereas in Italy, about 22% waste is burnt.

In the UK, about 65% of the waste is put in landfill sites. About 17% is converted into compost, and about 13% is recycled. Only about 5% waste is incinerated in the UK.

Overall, the least popular method is burning in the UK, whereas landfilling, compositing and recycling are the least popular in the Netherlands, Italy and the Spain respectively.