Hazardous waste disposal is governed by which act?

• A. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
• B. National Environmental Policy Act
• C. Clean Water Act
• D. Endangered Species Act

Answer: (A)

The question tests which federal law governs hazardous waste disposal. The correct framework is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which created a cradle-to-grave system for hazardous waste management—from generation and transportation to treatment and final disposal. It defines what counts as hazardous waste, requires generators, transporters, and treatment facilities to obtain permits, and uses a manifest tracking system to monitor waste as it moves to ensure proper handling. It also sets disposal standards and enforcement measures to protect human health and the environment. The other acts address different areas: the National Environmental Policy Act focuses on environmental impact assessments and public involvement rather than waste management; the Clean Water Act targets pollutants entering waterways; and the Endangered Species Act protects threatened or endangered species and their habitats.