Universal Wastes

Kinds of Universal Waste

The universal waste regulations streamline collection requirements for certain hazardous wastes in the following categories: batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing equipment (e.g., thermostats) and lamps (e.g., fluorescent bulbs). The rule is designed to reduce hazardous waste in the municipal solid waste (MSW) stream by making it easier for universal waste handlers to collect these items and send them for recycling or proper disposal. This site provides federal and state references for users interested in universal waste, including:

Basic Information – Learn more about universal waste regulations, what’s covered, who’s affected, and how the regulations apply.
Where You Live – Find out how universal wastes are regulated in your state.
Laws and Regulations – View regulatory documents and a glossary of terms.
Guidance – Locate policy and guidance documents on universal wastes.
Generation and Management – Compare universal waste requirements with other regulations and learn more about safe mercury management.
Recycling – Learn how and where to recycle universal wastes, including batteries and lamps.
Frequent Questions – Review answers to technical questions about universal wastes.
Resources – Find universal waste publications and related links.

Local Navigation