What is the primary goal of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)?

The primary goal of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is to promote recycling and safe disposal of waste. This federal law, enacted in 1976, provides a framework for managing hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. It emphasizes the importance of reducing waste, conserving energy and natural resources, and ensuring that waste is treated, stored, and disposed of in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

RCRA also aims to encourage the recycling of materials to minimize the demand for new resources, which promotes sustainability. The act sets standards for waste management practices to ensure that hazardous materials are handled responsibly, helping to prevent contamination and negative environmental impacts. Through this focus on recycling and responsible disposal, the act plays a vital role in waste management strategies and environmental protection efforts in the United States.