Liquid wastes include industrial wastes such as oil and natural gas refinery byproducts, municipal waste, chemical byproducts, agricultural wastes and radioactive water used as coolants in nuclear power plants. When improperly handled and disposed of, liquid wastes pose a serious threat to human health and the environment because of their ability to enter watersheds, pollute ground water and drinking water. The EPA regulates the disposal and treatment of liquid wastes through a number of programs and initiatives, including the Underground Injection Control Program, the Underground Storage Tank Program and the Oil Spill Program. The Agency also works with scientist to develop improved methods of treating and storing liquid wastes.
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