What is the process of gathering and disposing of household rubbish called?

The process of gathering and disposing of household rubbish is best described as refuse collection. This term specifically refers to the systematic collection of waste materials from residential areas, ensuring that refuse is transported for disposal or treatment in an appropriate manner. Refuse collection typically involves designated services that operate on a regular schedule to collect items such as organic waste, recyclables, and general refuse.

In contrast, waste management encompasses a broader set of practices and policies that include not only refuse collection but also waste treatment, recycling operations, and the overall strategic planning for waste disposal. Garbage disposal refers more specifically to the methods used to get rid of waste, which might include landfill, incineration, or composting but does not cover the collection aspect. Recycling operations are focused on the processing and repurposing of recyclable materials and do not include the initial collection phase. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why refuse collection is the most accurate term for the process mentioned in the question.