Planning and Policy for Household Hazardous Wastes at the Community Level

Many household products contain chemicals that are considered hazardous. These products become hazardous waste when discarded, posing potential harm to both human health and the natural environment. With increasing frequency, local governments are being pressured by residents to provide special household hazardous waste management programs. Planners are often the most qualified personnel to construct such programs. At a minimum, planners are requested to assist other staff members or act as the state’s liaison to the community. Increasing the planner’s knowledge of hazardous waste mitigation is essential to addressing the household hazardous waste problem. The project analyzes the current household hazardous waste issues faced by many communities. It first defines HHW and documents the causes of, and problems resulting from, present disposal methods, both legal and illegal. Next, it examines municipal liabilities by reviewing legislation and legal decisions, manifesting the need for community action. Finally, policy recommendations are given to help guide planners in devising a strategy to address the household hazardous waste issue in their community. These policy recommendations include education, collections, disposal, community involvement and program evaluation