Which legislation governs hazardous waste management in the United States?

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is the legislation that specifically governs hazardous waste management in the United States. It was enacted to address the inadequacies of previous waste management practices by establishing a comprehensive framework for managing hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. RCRA outlines the procedures and standards for the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes, aiming to protect human health and the environment from the potential dangers posed by waste disposal practices.

RCRA also emphasizes waste minimization and encourages recycling and resource recovery, which are key components in efficient waste management. By mandating a structured approach to hazardous waste, RCRA ensures that waste is handled in a manner that reduces risks to the environment and public health, making it the central piece of legislation for hazardous waste management in the U.S.