Which act is designed to regulate solid and hazardous waste handling?

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) is specifically designed to regulate the management of solid and hazardous waste in the United States. Enacted in 1976, the RCRA aims to protect human health and the environment from potential hazards posed by waste disposal. It outlines a framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste, including guidelines for waste generation, treatment, storage, and disposal.

The act establishes a "cradle-to-grave" system, which means it tracks hazardous waste from its creation to its ultimate disposal, ensuring that waste is managed safely throughout its life cycle. This regulation is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of waste and promoting resource conservation.

Other acts mentioned focus on different environmental concerns. For example, the Noise Control Act addresses noise pollution, the Toxic Substances Control Act regulates chemical substances, and the Clean Water Act focuses on water quality and pollution. None of these other acts directly pertain to the management and regulation of solid and hazardous waste as comprehensively as the RCRA does.