Which type of waste is classified as "nondecayable solid waste"?

Nondecayable solid waste refers to materials that do not decompose or break down naturally over time. Glass and metal items fit this definition as they are durable and can remain unchanged in the environment for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Their resistance to decay makes them a significant component of solid waste that poses challenges for waste management systems since they cannot be processed through traditional composting or biodegradation methods.

In contrast, animal waste, kitchen scraps, and compost materials are all organic in nature and are subject to decomposition by microorganisms. These materials can break down into simpler organic matter over time, making them suitable for composting and reducing their long-term environmental impact. Thus, glass and metal items are rightly classified as nondecayable solid waste due to their lasting presence in landfills and the environment.