7.1 Introduction

We must respond immediately to climate change and our actions must be bold.Introduction Chapter 7: Moderate Risk Waste | Introduction

The Tacoma-Pierce County Local Hazardous Waste Management Plan (LHWMP; or “Plan”) was first created in 1991 in response to the Washington State Hazardous Waste Management Act (RCW 70A.300). This act required local jurisdictions to develop a plan for the safe and responsible management of hazardous wastes generated by residents, businesses, or institutions generating small quantities of hazardous waste.

The 1991 Plan focused on what the Washington State Department of Ecology termed “moderate risk waste” (MRW). MRW is defined as any waste that exhibits the properties of hazardous waste but is categorically or conditionally exempt from regulation solely because the waste is generated in quantities below the threshold for regulation or is generated by households from the disposal of hazardous substances. Additionally, the Plan was further modified to include used oil recycling elements under the Washington State Used Oil Recycling Act (RCW 70A.224.005).

The 1991 Plan provided a comprehensive assessment of MRW generation, handling and disposal practices. It explored existing infrastructure, and financing and identified contaminated sites to provide a broad view of relevant conditions. Recommendations were created as part of this initial Plan and focused primarily on reduction of hazardous substances and proper management of MRW. Through public education initiatives, permanent MRW collection services and technical assistance/compliance programs, many of these goals were achieved and established services we see today.

The plan update carries the process forward reviewing work done in response to the 1991 Plan and more recent efforts. The plan will continue to emphasize a waste management hierarchy in which waste prevention is the top priority followed by recycling, treatment, incineration, solidification/ stabilization, and as a last resort, land disposal. Additionally, the Plan update will incorporate new waste reduction strategies and goals to reduce the threat of toxics posed by MRW.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Local Hazardous Waste Management Plan is incorporated into the Pierce County SHWMP.