Definition
Hazardous waste is a type of solid waste that poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Defined by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of the United States, hazardous waste is characterized by its potential for being ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic. Proper treatment, storage, and disposal are essential to mitigate the dangers associated with hazardous waste.
Examples
- Ignitable Substances: Items like paints, cleaners, oils, and waste fuels that can easily catch fire.
- Corrosive Substances: Acids or alkalis that can corrode metal containers, such as battery acid or rust remover.
- Reactive Substances: Chemicals that are unstable under normal conditions, triggering explosions, violent reactions, or toxic fumes like lithium-sulfur batteries or old munitions.
- Toxic Substances: Materials potentially harmful when ingested or absorbed, like discarded mercury-containing equipment or lead-based paints.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What qualifies as hazardous waste?
- Any waste that is ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic qualifies as hazardous waste according to the RCRA’s definitions.
- How is hazardous waste regulated in the United States?
- Hazardous waste is regulated primarily by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the RCRA. States may have additional regulations.
- What are the consequences of improper hazardous waste management?
- Improper handling can lead to severe environmental degradation, health issues, and substantial legal penalties.
- Can hazardous waste be recycled?
- Yes, certain types can be recycled if done properly, reducing the volume that needs disposal.
- Who is responsible for hazardous waste generated in a household?
- While industries abide by strict regulations, households are also responsible for safe disposal via local hazardous waste programs.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): A federal law in the United States governing the disposal of solid and hazardous waste.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): An independent executive agency tasked with environmental protection matters in the U.S.
- Solid Waste: Refers to any garbage, refuse, sludge, or other discarded material resulting from industrial, commercial, or community activities.
- Waste Management: The actions required to manage waste from inception to its final disposal.
- Toxic Substance: A chemical that can cause injury, illness, or adverse ecological effects.
Online Resources
- EPA Hazardous Waste: Main Topic Page - link
- RCRA Online Database - link
- Household Hazardous Waste (HHW): link
References
- Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Hazardous Waste. EPA Website
- U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Types of Hazardous Waste. Energy.gov
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Principles of Hazardous Materials Management” by James K. Voyles
- “Hazardous Waste Management” by Michael D. LaGrega, Philip L. Buckingham, and Jeffrey C. Evans
- “Handbook of Hazardous Waste Management for Small Quantity Generators” by Russell W. Phifer
- “Environmental Waste Management” by Ram Chandra
- “Hazardous Waste Handbook” by William C. Blackman Jr.
Real Estate Basics: Hazardous Waste Fundamentals Quiz
### Which law primarily governs hazardous waste management in the United States?
- [ ] Clean Water Act
- [x] Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
- [ ] Safe Drinking Water Act
- [ ] Clean Air Act
> **Explanation:** The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the primary law that governs hazardous waste management in the U.S.
### What characteristic would make a waste ignitable?
- [x] Easily catches fire
- [ ] Dissolves metal
- [ ] Reacts explosively with water
- [ ] Contains high levels of toxic substances
> **Explanation:** Ignitable substances are those that can easily catch fire.
### Which organization oversees hazardous waste regulations in the United States?
- [ ] OSHA
- [x] EPA
- [ ] FDA
- [ ] USDA
> **Explanation:** The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees hazardous waste regulations in the United States.
### What defines a waste as corrosive?
- [ ] It is radioactive
- [x] It can corrode metal containers
- [ ] It can catch fire
- [ ] It can be ingested safely
> **Explanation:** Corrosive substances include items like acids or alkalis that can corrode metal containers.
### What is one potential environmental impact of improper hazardous waste management?
- [ ] Increased plant growth
- [ ] Reforestation
- [x] Soil, water pollution
- [ ] Enhanced air quality
> **Explanation:** Improper hazardous waste management can lead to soil and water pollution.
### How often should hazardous waste be disposed of properly?
- [ ] Only during winter
- [x] Regularly, as per local laws
- [ ] Whenever convenient
- [ ] During full moon cycles
> **Explanation:** Hazardous waste should be regularly disposed of according to local laws and regulations.
### Can household waste be considered hazardous?
- [x] Yes, certain household items are hazardous
- [ ] No, household waste is never hazardous
- [ ] Only if it is in large quantities
- [ ] Only if it is disposed of in commercial bins
> **Explanation:** Certain household items like batteries and paints can be considered hazardous waste.
### What does “reactive” mean in hazardous waste characteristics?
- [ ] Not harmful in any way
- [ ] Easily disposed
- [ ] Can uninhibitedly blend with any substance
- [x] Stability issues under normal conditions
> **Explanation:** Reactive substances are unstable under normal conditions, posing risks like explosions or the release of toxic gases.
### What authority retains control over post-disposal of hazardous wastes?
- [x] Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- [ ] Federal Drug Administration (FDA)
- [ ] Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- [ ] Local police authorities
> **Explanation:** Even post-disposal, control over hazardous waste records and regulations remains with the EPA.
### Which definition best fits toxic substances?
- [ ] Always beneficial to the environment
- [ ] Harmless and can be ignored in waste management
- [ ] Might refresh habitats on being released
- [x] Harmful when ingested or absorbed
> **Explanation:** Toxic substances are harmful when they come into contact with humans or the ecosystem upon ingestion or absorption.
