Which regulation governs the disposal of hazardous waste?

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the correct regulation that specifically governs the disposal of hazardous waste. Enacted in 1976, RCRA provides the framework for the management of hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal. It sets forth standards for waste treatment, storage, and disposal to ensure that hazardous materials are managed in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

RCRA establishes criteria for identifying hazardous waste, outlining methods for proper disposal, and ensuring that waste facilities are adequately designed and operated to minimize the risk of leaks or spills. Additionally, the Act requires generators of hazardous waste to follow strict guidelines for the handling, labeling, and transport of such materials, reinforcing the importance of safe practices throughout the waste management process.

Understanding the context of other environmental regulations is useful. For example, the Clean Water Act primarily addresses water pollution and regulates discharges into waters of the United States. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) focuses on environmental impact assessments for federal projects, and the Endangered Species Act aims to protect threatened and endangered species and their habitats. While these laws are crucial for environmental protection, they do not specifically handle hazardous waste disposal like RCRA does.