Universal waste

Universal waste is a category of waste materials designated as "hazardous waste", but containing materials that are very common. It is defined in 40 CFR part 273, by the United States Environmental Protection Agency but states may also have corollary regulations regarding these materials.

Universal Waste includes:

• Batteries
• Pesticides
• Mercury-containing equipment (including many thermostats)
• Lamps containing mercury (e.g. fluorescent lamps, including compact fluorescent lamps)

Businesses and other generators of such waste are required to provide for their proper disposal.

References

• "Universal Wastes". United States Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/wastes/hazard/wastetypes/universal/. Retrieved 8 September 2011.