The heavily contaminated zones surrounding the cities of Deysum III, a planet marred by unchecked industrial expansion, were known as the wastes. These regions were characterized by the presence of hazardous chemical disposals, polluted waterways, and soil so tainted that agriculture was impossible. No indigenous fauna existed within the wastes. To protect their inhabitants, cities were enclosed by domes that purified the air, and individuals entering the wastes underwent rigorous inspection and cleansing upon their re-entry.