EPA finalizes new hazardous waste import, export rules

The Environmental Protection Agency recently finalized an updated version of the Hazardous Waste Import and Export Regulations, which will better protect public and environmental health through improved processes and electronic reporting requirements.

“EPA is dedicated to continuing to improve the tracking of hazardous waste exports and imports to provide a safe and healthy environment for all," EPA Office of Land and Emergency Management Assistant Administrator Mathy Stanislaus said. "This new rule will provide greater protection to communities from mismanagement of hazardous waste when it is shipped across multiple countries to be disposed or recycled. ... The rule provides for improved transparency, data sharing and tracking for international shipments,” Stanislaus said.

The updated rule streamlines regulations, consolidating requirements that were previously contained in several regulations. All hazardous waste imports and exports are now subject to the stringent requirements of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The new regulation also includes stricter electronic reporting requirements, including a provision that requires consent to export to be linked to the electronic export information given to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for each shipment. The regulation also requires electronic reporting to the EPA, allowing the agency to better disseminate data with stakeholders that include the public, shipping companies and state programs.