What is the goal of hazardous waste management?

The primary goal of hazardous waste management is to ensure safe disposal of hazardous materials while minimizing environmental damage. This involves a comprehensive approach to handling waste, which includes the identification, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste in a manner that protects human health and the environment. Effective management practices aim to reduce the risk of contamination of air, water, and soil, as well as to prevent hazardous substances from harming living organisms.

Focusing on safe disposal means employing various methods, including recycling, treatment, and secure landfilling, depending on the specific type of waste and its properties. This approach addresses the long-term impacts of hazardous waste on ecosystems and communities, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and promoting sustainability.

Other options do not align with the overarching goals of hazardous waste management. For instance, maximizing landfill capacities could lead to situations where hazardous waste is not adequately contained or treated, leading to potential environmental hazards. Incineration can be part of waste management but is not the sole or definitive approach, and not all waste is suitable for incineration. Promoting industrial waste reuse is beneficial, but it does not encompass the full scope of hazardous waste management, which prioritizes safety and environmental protection.