What does RCRA stand for in the context of hazardous waste disposal?

RCRA stands for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which is a key piece of legislation in the United States that governs the management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. Enacted in 1976, the RCRA's primary objective is to protect human health and the environment by ensuring the safe management and disposal of waste. It establishes a framework for the proper treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste, aiming to minimize the potential risks associated with improper waste management.

The Act also encourages the conservation of resources and promotes recycling and waste reduction through various programs and regulations. With its comprehensive guidelines, RCRA plays a crucial role in waste management practices, influencing how both hazardous materials and solid waste are handled across industries.

This specific phrasing of RCRA distinctly identifies the legislation's focus on resource conservation alongside recovery, which makes it not only relevant to hazardous waste but also to sustainable practices in waste management and environmental protection.