Which law governs the management of hazardous waste in the United States?

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the law that specifically governs the management of hazardous waste in the United States. Enacted in 1976, the RCRA provides a framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. It establishes criteria for waste disposal facilities, outlines methods for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal, and sets forth requirements for the tracking and management of hazardous waste throughout its lifecycle.

This act aims to protect human health and the environment from the potential hazards of waste disposal while conserving energy and natural resources. It is concerned with the entire lifecycle of hazardous waste, from generation to disposal, ensuring that waste is managed in a manner that minimizes risks to public health and environmental quality. The implementation of the RCRA is crucial for maintaining safe waste management practices across various sectors, including industrial and agricultural operations.

Understanding the RCRA is essential for anyone involved in the handling or disposal of hazardous waste in order to comply with federal regulations and to promote sustainable waste management practices.