What is the definition of hazardous waste?

The definition of hazardous waste is best represented by the option describing it as waste that poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment. Hazardous waste includes materials that are ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic, which can lead to adverse effects if not managed properly. This classification is crucial for ensuring safety measures are put in place for handling, transporting, and disposing of such materials to protect human health and preserve the environment.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of hazardous waste. Describing hazardous waste as non-toxic overlooks the inherent risks involved with many types of waste. Suggesting that hazardous waste is simply recyclable without special treatment fails to recognize that many hazardous materials require specific processing methods to mitigate their potential dangers. Finally, defining it as only harmful to aquatic life ignores the broader public health implications and the various environments that such waste can impact.