Which of the following is a benefit of implementing waste minimization practices?

Implementing waste minimization practices is primarily beneficial because it leads to improved public health. By reducing the amount of waste generated, there is a decrease in pollutants and hazardous materials that can contaminate air, water, and soil. This, in turn, can lower exposure to harmful substances that can cause health problems for communities and ecosystems.

Waste minimization typically involves strategies such as recycling, composting, and reducing the use of hazardous materials, all of which contribute to a healthier environment. A cleaner environment directly correlates with better public health outcomes, as communities are less likely to suffer from diseases associated with poor sanitation and high levels of waste.

The other options involve negative outcomes, such as increased disposal costs, higher waste generation, and increased environmental contamination, which contradict the goals of effective waste management and its public health impacts. Thus, the emphasis on public health reinforces the positive implications of waste minimization practices.