Define "hazardous waste" as per RCRA regulations.

The definition of "hazardous waste" according to RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) regulations is centered on the idea that such waste poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment. This meaning captures the essence of hazardous waste; it refers to materials that, due to their characteristics—such as toxicity, ignitability, corrosivity, or reactivity—can be dangerous if improperly managed or disposed of. The regulations aim to ensure that hazardous waste is identified and handled in a way that minimizes risk to human health and the ecosystem.

Choosing this definition is crucial because it underscores the importance of managing waste based on its potential harm rather than merely its recyclability or biodegradability. For instance, while non-recyclable waste or biodegradable waste might not be hazardous, they do not fit the criteria of posing immediate risks associated with toxicity or other dangerous properties that RCRA aims to control. Similarly, not all waste destined for landfills is hazardous; some can be safely contained without posing a risk. Understanding this definition is fundamental for compliance with federal regulations and for safeguarding health and the environment.