Evaluating the Impact of Recycling Programs

Easy Critical Reasoning Evaluating Data Arguments

According to a recent analysis by an environmental group, cities that have implemented extensive recycling programs saw a 25% reduction in landfill waste over the past five years. The analysis is based on data collected from 50 cities that have made substantial changes to their waste management policies. However, critics argue that this reduction could be due to other factors, including population decline and economic downturns in these areas.

Which of the following, if true, would most seriously weaken the environmental group's conclusion?

Many of the cities that implemented recycling programs have also encouraged residents to compost organic waste.

The population in several cities with extensive recycling programs has increased over the same period.

A number of cities without recycling programs have also reported a decrease in landfill waste.

The economic conditions in the analyzed cities have improved, leading to an increase in consumer goods consumption.

Hint

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