Question

What law was passed to ensure the safe land disposal of hazardous wastes? What are the main features of the legislation?

Short answer

The law passed to regulate safe hazardous waste disposal is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). It implemented a 'cradle to grave' system, a substance tracking scheme, standards for waste management facilities, and encouraged waste reduction and recycling.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Law

The legislation that was passed to regulate the safe disposal of hazardous waste on land is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

Highlight the Main Features

The RCRA is a United States federal law that sets up a framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. Its main features include: 1. The creation of a 'cradle to grave' system controlling hazardous waste from the time of its creation until its final disposal. 2. The establishment of a regulatory system to track hazardous substances. 3. The institution of standards for hazardous waste management facilities. 4. The promotion of waste reduction and recycling.