Classification of Hazardous Waste - RCRA Definition

A Hazardous waste is a subset of solid waste. Therefore, in order for a waste to be a hazardous waste it must first meet the definition of a solid waste. Solid waste is defined in 40 CFR Part §261.2.

Solid waste refers to not only solids, but also sludges, liquids, and contained gases.

Materials are solid waste if they are:

• Abandoned by being disposed of; incinerated; or accumulated, stored or treated instead of being disposed or incinerated
• Considered inherently waste-like such as certain listed wastes which may contain dioxins.
• Recycled or accumulated, stored, or treated before recycling, in a manner constituting disposal ( i.e., burned for energy recovery). See 40 CFR Part §261.2 for exemptions.

The regulations concerning recycled materials are complex. The regulations should be consulted on a case-by-case basis.