RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act)

Definition

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is a federal law in the United States that regulates the management of hazardous waste from its generation to its disposal. It aims to protect human health and the environment by ensuring proper handling, storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste:

Hazardous waste refers to any material that poses substantial risks to human health or the environment due to its chemical properties. Examples include toxic chemicals, flammable substances, or radioactive materials.

Landfill: A landfill is a designated area where solid waste, including non-hazardous and hazardous waste, is disposed of in a controlled manner. It involves burying the waste underground to minimize environmental impacts.

Incineration:

Incineration is a process that involves burning waste materials at high temperatures. It can be used for both hazardous and non-hazardous wastes, reducing their volume and converting them into ash or gas.