Which agency is responsible for regulating hazardous waste in the U.S.?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency responsible for regulating hazardous waste in the United States. Established in response to growing environmental concerns, the EPA's mission includes protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations concerning air and water quality, hazardous waste disposal, and other environmental protection measures.

One of the key legislations that the EPA administers is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which gives the agency authority to oversee the management of hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal. This law establishes a framework for tracking hazardous waste, ensuring that it is treated and disposed of safely to minimize its impact on public health and the environment.

This specific focus and authority over hazardous waste differentiates the EPA from other agencies, which have distinct roles. For instance, OSHA primarily focuses on workplace safety and health regulations without a direct mandate concerning waste management. The Department of Transportation deals with the transport of hazardous materials, ensuring safe and regulated transport but does not manage the waste itself. FEMA is involved in disaster response and recovery rather than ongoing regulation of hazardous substances or waste management. Thus, the role that the EPA plays is crucial and specific to hazardous waste regulation within the U.S.