What defines "hazardous waste"?

The definition of "hazardous waste" revolves around its inherent characteristics that can pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Waste is classified as hazardous when it exhibits properties that may be harmful, such as being toxic, corrosive, reactive, or ignitable. This classification is essential for establishing appropriate handling, treatment, and disposal methods to mitigate potential dangers.

Understanding this definition is critical in various fields, especially in environmental health and safety, where the management of waste materials is crucial for maintaining safety standards and preventing contamination. The other options, while related to waste management, do not capture the essential attributes that classify waste as hazardous. For instance, the option about recyclability refers to the potential for repurposing waste, not its harmful effects. The notion of waste being easily removable or biodegradable does not address the safety considerations defining hazardous waste and whether it poses a threat to health or the environment.