The USA has a large number of waste management facilities and abandoned contaminated sites that may pose risks to human health because of contaminants released into the environment. The strategy targets the cost-effective clean-up of these contaminated waste sites. It also identifies the research needed to support the proper management of solid and hazardous wastes.
There are four areas that correspond to major waste related environmental problems, such as contaminated groundwater, contaminated soil, emissions from waste combustion facilities and active waste management facilities. The purpose of this strategy is to apply EPA’s principles, goals and ranking criteria to set priorities for waste research topics and activities.
These priorities will be used to determine how to accomplish research activities, including using grants and coordinating research with other groups and stakeholders. The strategy is organized into three chapters that describe:
- major waste problems in the United States, the human health and environmental risks they cause, and cost of management and cleanup;
- research needs and environmental problem areas; and
- outstanding issues requiring further evaluation.
The strategy can be obtained through the Internet by following the link below.