Hazardous Waste

Register for US EPA’s Working Sessions on Mid-Format Battery Recycling

The US EPA is hosting a series of four meetings on mid-format battery recycling and collection from September through November, 11AM to 1PM PST. Mid-format batteries are rechargeable batteries between 11 and 25 pounds and 300 to 2,000 watt-hour ratings. Examples of mid-format batteries include e-bikes, e-scooters, portable power stations, and outdoor power equipment. Register today here and check out the topics for the working sessions:

All-Hazards Waste Management Planning Tool

New Resource Now Available The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed and launched the All-Hazards Waste Management Planning Tool to assist emergency managers and planners for all communities (state, local, Tribal, and territorial), and large industrial and municipal facilities. The tool guides users through the process of creating or updating a comprehensive pre-incident plan for managing materials and wastes generated from manmade and natural disasters, and preparing for plan implementation post-incident.  This tool is intended to encourage communities to begin planning for …

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US EPA Rule Update Regarding Fossil Fuel Fired Power Plants

On April 25, the US EPA announced a set of final rules attempting to reduce pollution from fossil fuel-fired power plants and protect communities and improve public health without compromising reliable electricity delivery. These rules, established under the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, aim to cut climate, air, water, and land pollution from the power sector. The rules include: To read more about these rules please visit the US EPA website here.

US EPA Finalizes First-Ever National Drinking Water Standard to Protect 100M People from PFAS Pollution

On April 10, 2024, US EPA issued the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard intended to protect communities from exposure to harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals” that are potentially linked to cancer.  EPA estimates that between about 6% and 10% of the 66,000 public drinking water systems subject to this rule may have to take action to reduce PFAS to meet these new standards. All public water systems have three years to complete …

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US EPA Finalizes Ban on Most Uses of Methylene Chloride

On April 30, 2024, US EPA finalized a ban on most uses of methylene chloride, due to concerns that the chemical can cause cancer, neurotoxicity, liver harm and even death. Methylene chloride is used by consumers for aerosol degreasing and paint and coating brush cleaners, in commercial applications such as adhesives and sealants, and in industrial settings for making other chemicals.  EPA’s final risk management rule requires companies to rapidly phase down manufacturing, processing and distribution of methylene chloride for all consumer …

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US EPA Extends Comment Period for Revisions of Open Burning/Open Detonation of Hazardous Waste Explosives Proposal; New Map Published

On March 20, 2024 the US Envirormental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed changes that would amend the standards for facilities that use open burning and open detonation to treat waste explosives. In response to requests for additional time, US EPA extended the comment period through June 20, 2024. Learn about this proposed rule and submit comments here.  If you are interested in learning more about where these facilities are located, check out US EPA’s new map publishing the location, identification numbers, permitting statuses, and …

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US EPA Webinar on June 20, 2024 to Help Communities and Organizations Promote the Collection of Small-Format Batteries

On June 20, 2024, at 11am PST the US EPA is hosting a webinar on effective public outreach and education efforts that promote the proper management of used small-format consumer batteries and battery-containing electronic products. Discussion will include the components of campaigns including messaging, materials, and outlets/mechanisms. The session will highlight some success stories and participants will have the opportunity to share what they are doing in their own communities. Anyone involved in the collection and recycling of batteries is …

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US EPA Launches New Website For Environmental Permitting

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched a new website, epa.gov/permits, a centralized web-based platform for information about federal environmental permitting. It highlights EPA’s permitting and environmental review programs and shares information on related statutes and environmental justice initiatives.  EPA’s goal is to provide another tool for stakeholders to access information on the US EPA’s permitting processes.  To view new permitting website, click here.

Electronics Scrap Recycling Advancement Prize

The US Department of Energy launched the Electronics Scrap Recycling Advancement Prize and will award up to $4 million to competitors to substantially increase the production and use of critical materials recovered from electronic scrap, known as e-scrap. The cash prizes and assistance awarded in Phases 1 and 2 are intended to support teams as they advance in the competition. E-scrap—which includes mobile phones, home appliances, medical or office equipment, and anything else powered by electricity—represents the fastest growing waste stream globally. …

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Revisions to Standards for the Open Burning/Open Detonation of Waste Explosives

Upcoming US EPA Webinar; Public Comment Period Open On March 20, 2024, US EPA proposed changes that would amend the standards for facilities to use open burning/open detonation (OB/OD) to treat waste explosives. The proposed revisions would reduce OB/OD of waste explosives and increase control of air emissions through improved implementation of existing requirements that facilities must evaluate and use safe and available alternative technologies in lieu of OB/OD.  US EPA will host a webinar on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 10AM …

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