EPA Strengthens DSW Regulation, Sets Criteria For ‘Verified’ Recyclers

EPA has released its long-awaited final rule on the definition of solid waste (DSW), strengthening Bush-era requirements for recycling hazardous waste, as expected, but also addressing criticisms over the 2011 proposed rule by now allowing so-called “verified” recyclers to obtain a variance from strict hazardous waste requirements, and affirming the legitimacy of in-process recycling and commodity-grade recycled products. EPA released the rule Dec. 10 , saying the regulation finalizes “new safeguards that promote responsible recycling of hazardous secondary materials.” The...