What type of waste includes any discarded or abandoned materials?

The correct choice is solid waste, as this term encompasses any discarded or abandoned materials that are generated in various contexts, including residential, industrial, and commercial settings. Solid waste typically includes items that are no longer wanted or needed, such as household garbage, packaging materials, construction debris, and discarded furniture.

Understanding the definition of solid waste is important for effective waste management practices, which are critical in pest control and environmental protection. Proper handling, collection, treatment, and disposal of solid waste can prevent the accumulation of materials that might attract pests or create unsanitary conditions.

Liquid waste, on the other hand, refers specifically to wastewater or any other liquids that may need special treatment, while hazardous waste includes materials that pose a significant risk to public health or the environment, requiring special handling. Non-hazardous waste denotes materials that are safe to handle and do not pose a risk, but they still fall under the broader category of solid waste when discarded.