Waste Generator, Pharmaceutical Rule Proposals Prompt Mixed Reactions

摘要

A pair of proposed EPA waste rules that aims to streamline requirements for non-manufacturing hazardous waste generators, especially retailers and healthcare facilities, is drawing initial general support, although environmental attorneys are highlighting concerns that the pharmaceutical waste rule will not deter a patchwork of more stringent state standards. The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) - which had voiced concern to EPA last year about the Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) being an ill-fit for retailers - is, at first glance, welcoming the rules. State and federal regulators over the past several years stepped up enforcement against large retailers over RCRA violations, prompting the concerns and causing EPA to seek information from the retail sector on waste management practices and how to address retailers' compliance challenges with hazardous waste policies.