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  2. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Laws and Regulations

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Training Module: Definition of Solid Waste and Hazardous Waste Recycling

***NOTE***

This module was last updated in 2001 so it has not been updated to reflect regulatory changes that have been made since then. Though this is still a useful resource, it is not intended to serve as a comprehensive source of regulatory information. For recent regulatory information, visit:

  • Definition of solid waste web page
  • Regulatory Exclusions and Alternative Standards for Recycling web page

This training module:

  • Explains the statutory and regulatory definitions of solid waste, including the standards governing the recycling and management of specific types of wastes
  • Explains the definition of hazardous waste
  • Familiarizes you with the regulations governing the recycling of hazardous wastes

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Explain and cite the regulatory and statutory definitions of solid waste
  • Cite and use the table in §261.2 and the preamble to the January 4, 1985, Federal Register (50 FR 614)
  • List and cite three use/reuse scenarios where the materials are not solid wastes and state the requirement for documentation
  • List the conditions under which hazardous waste-derived products may be excluded from regulation
  • Discuss the special recycling standards for use constituting disposal, precious metal recovery, and spent lead-acid batteries
  • Discuss potential regulatory developments affecting the definition of solid waste and hazardous waste recycling

Access other training modules that provide overviews of other specific RCRA regulatory topics here.

  • Introduction to Definition of Solid Waste and Hazardous Waste Recycling (pdf) (65.32 KB, October 2001, EPA530-K-02-007I)

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Laws and Regulations

  • Basics
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  • Resources
  • Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials
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  • ORCR Annual Accomplishments
Contact Us About the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Laws and Regulations
Contact Us About the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Laws and Regulations to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on February 11, 2025
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