Question

Which of the following industries generate non-biodegradable wastes?

1) Cotton mills
(2) Paper mills
(3) Thermal power plants
(4) Textile factories

• A. Cotton mills
• B. Paper mills
• C. Thermal power plants
• D. Textile factories

Hint:

Thermal power plants produce non-biodegradable waste like fly ash and heavy metals. These pollutants can persist in the environment and require proper disposal methods.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Non-Biodegradable Waste 
Non-biodegradable waste refers to materials that do not decompose naturally and persist in the environment for a long time, causing pollution. These include plastics, heavy metals, industrial chemicals, and fly ash. 

Step 2: Analyzing the Given Industries 
1. Cotton mills: Incorrect. Cotton mills primarily generate biodegradable waste, such as natural fiber residues.\ 2. Paper mills: Incorrect. Paper waste is mostly biodegradable and recyclable.
3. Thermal power plants: Correct. These plants generate large amounts of non-biodegradable waste such as fly ash, bottom ash, and heavy metal residues, which contribute to environmental pollution.
4. Textile factories: Incorrect. Textile waste can include biodegradable materials like natural fibers, though synthetic fibers may persist longer. Step 3: Evaluating the Given Options 
- Option (1): Incorrect, as cotton waste is biodegradable.
- Option (2): Incorrect, as paper is mostly biodegradable.
- Option (3): Correct, as thermal power plants generate non-biodegradable industrial waste.
- Option (4): Incorrect, as textile waste varies, but most of it is biodegradable.
Thus, the correct answer is 

Option (3).