Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA, 1976)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq.)

2) Why It Was Done
RCRA was passed to address growing concerns about solid and hazardous waste disposal, ensuring safe management from “cradle to grave” and protecting human health and the environment.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
Before RCRA, waste management was largely unregulated at the federal level, with states and municipalities handling disposal. Environmental disasters highlighted the need for stronger standards.

4) Overreach or Proper Role?
Supporters argue it prevents pollution and safeguards health. Critics say compliance is costly for businesses and sometimes stifles industrial flexibility.

5) Who or What It Controls

• EPA (sets national waste management standards)
• States (implement waste programs under federal oversight)
• Businesses and industries (must track and manage hazardous waste)
• Municipalities (regulated for landfill and solid waste practices)

6) Key Sections / Citations

• Subtitle C (42 U.S.C. § 6921): Hazardous waste management
• Subtitle D (42 U.S.C. § 6941): Solid waste management (non-hazardous)
• Subtitle I (42 U.S.C. § 6991): Underground storage tanks

7) Recent Changes or Live Controversies

• Ongoing updates to hazardous waste listings and recycling standards
• Controversy over coal ash disposal and e-waste management
• Interaction with CERCLA (Superfund) for cleanup of contaminated sites

8) Official Sources

• Congress.gov – RCRA 1976
• EPA – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
• 42 U.S.C. § 6901 et seq. – U.S. Code

• Environment
• Waste Management
• Hazardous Waste
• Epa
• Public Health