Hazardous waste is any material that is potentially dangerous or harmful to human health or the environment. It is a specific type of waste that requires special handling and disposal due to its chemical or physical characteristics. Hazardous waste can come from many sources, including homes, businesses, industries, and hospitals.
According to the EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), solid waste is identified as hazardous in one of two ways. It must exhibit at least one of four hazardous properties determined by the EPA or it must be specifically listed on the EPA’s list of hazardous materials.
The four characteristics of hazardous waste determination are as follows:
Examples of hazardous waste include batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing light bulbs, medical waste, and old electronics (e-waste). These items can pose a risk to human health and environmental health if not managed properly. For example, batteries contain heavy metals that can leach into the soil and groundwater, causing contamination. Pesticides can harm wildlife and enter the food chain, affecting public health. E-waste contains toxic chemicals that can harm the environment and those who work in the disposal and recycling of these materials.
Proper disposal of hazardous waste is important to prevent contamination of the air, water, and soil. Hazardous waste should never be thrown into the regular trash or poured down the drain. Instead, it must be taken to a designated hazardous waste disposal facility, where it will be safely managed and disposed of.
In the United States, hazardous waste regulation is managed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has established strict guidelines for the handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste to ensure that it is done safely and responsibly. This includes strict labeling and packaging requirements, as well as transportation regulations to prevent spills and leaks during transportation.
Consumers can play a role in reducing the amount of hazardous waste generated by properly disposing of household hazardous waste, such as batteries and electronics, at local recycling events. Businesses can also take steps to reduce their hazardous waste by properly managing their waste streams and reducing the use of hazardous materials.
Hazardous waste is a serious issue that must be managed carefully to protect human health and the environment. Proper disposal is essential to prevent contamination, and the EPA has established strict regulations to ensure that hazardous waste is handled and disposed of safely. By being mindful of the waste we generate and taking steps to reduce and properly dispose of hazardous waste, we can help protect the environment for future generations. Contact O6 Environmental to develop a hazardous waste program for your business.