Identify a common best practice for waste management in housing.

Implementing source separation and recycling programs is recognized as a common best practice for waste management in housing because it promotes a systematic approach to managing waste effectively. This practice encourages residents to separate their waste at the point of disposal into different categories, such as recyclable materials, organic waste, and general refuse. By doing so, it enhances the recovery of valuable materials, reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills, and promotes recycling efforts within the community.

This approach not only helps in decreasing the environmental impact associated with waste disposal but also fosters a culture of sustainability within housing communities. Adopting source separation and recycling contributes to conserving natural resources and minimizes pollution, making it a fundamental aspect of effective waste management strategies in housing.

The other options do not align with best practices for waste management. Burning waste materials can release harmful pollutants into the air, while dumping waste in nearby fields poses significant environmental hazards and health risks. Composting only garden waste, while beneficial for certain organic materials, does not address the broader needs of waste management that recycling programs encompass. Therefore, implementing source separation and recycling is the most comprehensive and responsible approach for handling waste in housing.