The hierarchy of waste according to the EPA prioritizes waste management strategies based on their environmental impact. It ranks the options from most to least favorable: source reduction (preventing waste generation), reuse (using items multiple times), recycling and composting (processing materials to create new products), energy recovery (converting waste into usable energy), and disposal (landfilling or incineration). This framework encourages sustainable practices by promoting methods that minimize waste and resource consumption.
Reduction or Elimination of waste
The terms "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" are the 3 Rs of the Waste hierarchy The waste hierarchy refers to the 3 Rs of waste-minimisation which classify strategies according to their desirability. The 3 Rs are meant to be a hierarchy, in order of importance.
Standard approaches to waste disposal are generally regulated and managed by EPA.
Standard approaches to waste disposal are generally regulated and managed by EPA.
According to the EPA, electronic waste contributes 70% of the toxic heavy metals found in landfills.
EPA
The P-list and U-list
hazardous waste label
EPA Form 8700-22
EPA Form 8700-22
The U list
The label used in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations for hazardous waste container marking is the "Hazardous Waste" label. This label must include the words "Hazardous Waste," the contents of the container, and the waste's EPA identification number. Additionally, it should indicate the accumulation start date and any relevant hazard symbols. Proper labeling ensures safe handling and compliance during storage, transportation, and disposal.