Batteries, mercury containing equipment and lamps are all examples of which type of hazardous waste?

Batteries, mercury-containing equipment, and lamps are classified as universal wastes due to their potential hazardous nature and the regulations governing their disposal. Universal waste is a category of hazardous waste that is subject to less stringent regulations to encourage safe recycling and proper disposal.

These items are considered universal because they are commonly generated by various entities, including households and businesses, making their management a concern across numerous sectors. The universal waste regulations simplify the handling and disposal of these items, allowing for easier recycling processes and reducing environmental risks associated with their improper disposal.

In contrast, hazardous materials encompass a broader category and include any substance that can pose a threat to human health or the environment, while non-hazardous waste refers to materials that do not pose such risks. Industrial waste typically pertains to waste generated from manufacturing or industrial processes and does not necessarily cover the specific items listed in the question. Therefore, the designation of batteries, mercury-containing equipment, and lamps as universal wastes highlights the effective approach to managing these common hazardous materials.