1-4. Why is the generation of hazardous waste not only a result of large-scale industry?
What are some other sources?
Large-scale industry is the largest contributor to the generation of hazardous waste. However, there are
others as well. There are products manufactured through industry which are distributed throughout
society, leading to the generation of hazardous waste by agricultural, commercial, and household
activities. This includes even institutions such as universities and hospitals. Products in households, once
thrown away, may become hazardous when they combine with other chemicals in the home. While it is
true that other "categories" are a small percentage of the total mass, they may present a more serious
problem in the future in that large industries have the infrastructure (trained staff, laboratories and TSDFs)
in place to properly handle hazardous waste. Small quantity generators, local government and households
often do not even understand the nature of the problem, much less have any ability to deal with hazardous
waste.