Which government agency is primarily responsible for regulating hazardous waste?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily responsible for regulating hazardous waste in the United States. This responsibility includes enforcing the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which governs the management of hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal. The EPA sets specific regulations for handling, storage, treatment, and disposal to protect human health and the environment from the dangers posed by hazardous substances.

The agency’s role involves overseeing the compliance of businesses and facilities that generate hazardous waste, ensuring they follow the necessary guidelines to minimize risks associated with hazardous materials. Additionally, the EPA conducts inspections, provides guidance, and works to promote recycling and recovery of materials to reduce waste.

In contrast, while the Department of Transportation oversees the transportation of hazardous materials and OSHA focuses on worker safety regarding exposure to hazardous substances, neither has the same comprehensive regulatory authority over hazardous waste management as the EPA. FEMA is primarily involved in disaster response and recovery, not in the direct regulation of hazardous waste. Thus, the EPA stands out as the authoritative body in this domain.