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Waste Regulation
What is universal waste?
Universal waste is a category of hazardous waste designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to streamline regulations for commonly generated hazardous materials.
These waste materials pose environmental and health risks if not properly managed, but they are subject to less stringent regulations than other hazardous waste to encourage proper recycling and disposal.
Common Universal Waste Items
Each of these categories contains hazardous components that can harm the environment if improperly discarded. The Universal Waste Rule aims to prevent contamination by promoting proper recycling and disposal.
Lamps (Bulbs)
e.g., fluorescent, high-intensity discharge (HID), neon, mercury vapor, and LED lamps in some states
Batteries
e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, lead-acid
Mercury-Containing Equipment
e.g., thermostats, barometers, manometers
Ballasts
Non-PCB ballasts
Federal Universal Waste Regulations
The Universal Waste Rule (40 CFR Part 273) was established by the EPA under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to simplify hazardous waste regulations for these specific materials. The rule provides flexibility for waste handlers while ensuring environmental safety.
Key Provisions of Federal Universal Waste Rules:
- Storage Time Limits: Universal waste can be stored for up to one year from the date it is generated.
- Labeling Requirements: Waste containers must be labeled appropriately (e.g., “Used Batteries,” “Universal Waste – Lamps”).
- Transportation Guidelines: Universal waste can be transported without a hazardous waste manifest, but it must be taken to a permitted universal waste handler or recycler.
- Generator Categories:
- Small Quantity Handlers (SQGs): Generate less than 5,000 kg of universal waste at a time and have less stringent recordkeeping requirements.
- Large Quantity Handlers (LQGs): Generate more than 5,000 kg and must meet stricter tracking and reporting requirements.
- Recycling & Disposal: Universal waste must be sent to a permitted recycler or disposal facility to prevent contamination.
Need to recycle universal waste? Bulbcycle makes it easy
Recycle your universal waste in 4 easy steps with BulbCycle
Order a certified recycling kit based on what you need to dispose of
We’ll send the kit to you – with free shipping! Fill it up at your own convenience
When it’s full, add your included shipping label and call FedEx for pickup
Once we receive the kit and dispose of the material you can access your Certificate of Recycling
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4ft Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Box LARGE (Holds 68 T12 or 146 T8 Lamps)
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8ft Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Box LARGE (Holds 25 T12 Lamps or 57 T8 Lamps)
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Ballast Recycling Bucket – 5 Gallon (holds up to 22 NON-PCB Standard Ballasts or 55 lbs)
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4ft Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Box MEDIUM (Holds 30 T12 or 72 T8 Lamps)
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State-Specific Universal Waste Regulations
While the EPA sets minimum requirements for universal waste management, individual states can expand these rules. Many states have additional universal waste categories and specific recycling requirements. Below are examples of state variations.
California
California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has one of the most expansive universal waste programs. The state includes additional waste types such as:
- CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Devices (e.g., old TVs and monitors)
- Non-empty Aerosol Cans
- Electronic Waste (E-Waste) (e.g., cell phones, computers, printers)
- Pharmaceutical Waste (for some generators)
More information about recycling universal waste in California
New York
New York follows federal regulations but expanded its universal waste list in 2023 to include hazardous waste aerosol cans and specific paints.
More information about recycling universal waste in the state of New York
Illinois
Illinois allows the crushing of fluorescent bulbs, treating crushed bulbs as universal waste, which simplifies disposal for businesses.
More information about recycling universal waste in the state of Illinois
Texas
Texas follows federal regulations but has additional guidance on handling mercury-containing equipment and pesticide disposal.
More information about recycling universal waste in the state of Texas
Florida
Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) manages universal waste closely, with strict requirements on mercury-containing equipment.
More information about recycling universal waste in the state of Florida
Questions?
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858-412-6536
Why Compliance Matters
Businesses and waste handlers must comply with universal waste regulations to avoid fines, protect the environment, and ensure public health. Proper recycling of universal waste reduces landfill waste and prevents toxic contamination of air, soil, and water.