What authority is primarily responsible for regulating hazardous waste in the United States?

The primary authority responsible for regulating hazardous waste in the United States is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Established in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution and public health, the EPA oversees the management and disposal of hazardous waste through regulations and guidelines outlined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). This legislation provides the framework for the safe management of hazardous waste, ensuring that it is handled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

The EPA's comprehensive approach includes setting standards for waste treatment, storage, and disposal, as well as enforcing compliance through inspections and penalties. The agency also plays a crucial role in educating the public and businesses about hazardous waste management practices and promoting waste minimization strategies.

Other agencies, such as OSHA, DOT, and FEMA, have specific responsibilities that may overlap with certain aspects of hazardous materials management but do not have the primary role in regulating hazardous waste. OSHA focuses on worker safety, DOT addresses transportation regulations, and FEMA focuses on disaster response and recovery, rather than the waste management regulatory framework established by the EPA.