What is the purpose of chemicals classified under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act?

The chemicals classified under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) are primarily intended to regulate hazardous waste management. RCRA provides a framework for the management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste, with the goal of ensuring that waste is handled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

By establishing standards for waste treatment, storage, and disposal, the RCRA empowers environmental agencies to oversee the lifecycle of hazardous waste from generation to disposal. This includes stipulations on how to handle, store, and clean up hazardous materials to prevent contamination of air, water, and soil.

While promoting recycling practices, enhancing agricultural practices, and controlling air quality standards are important objectives within environmental health, they fall under different legislative frameworks and focus areas. The specific emphasis of the RCRA is on managing hazardous waste effectively and ensuring safety and compliance across all stages of hazardous waste management.