Why is MCE an appropriate waste to be managed in the universal waste program?
The universal waste regulations include eight factors for the Agency to consider when evaluating petitions for adding a category of hazardous waste to the universal waste rule. EPA has examined spent mercury-containing equipment using the criteria in section 273.81, and has considered the information submitted in the original rulemaking petition submitted by the Utility Solid Waste Activities Group (USWAG), as well as the public comments submitted in response to the proposed rule. EPA believes this waste meets the factors that describe waste that is appropriate for management under the streamlined universal waste system. In addition, EPA believes that adding spent MCE to the Universal Waste Rule will make collection and transportation of this waste to an appropriate facility easier and, therefore, will reduce the amount of mercury being released into the environment.
Related Questions
- Additional information on the management of batteries as universal waste is available in the following frequently asked question: What types of batteries can be managed as universal waste in accordance with Part273?
- What does "Mercury-Containing Equipment" mean in the context of the Universal Waste Program?
- Why is MCE an appropriate waste to be managed in the universal waste program?
