Final answer:
The law designed to regulate hazardous waste from its creation to disposal is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), focusing on safe management practices to protect human health and the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The federal law designed to regulate hazardous waste 'from cradle to grave' is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The RCRA provides the framework for the proper management of hazardous waste, ensuring it is managed safely from the moment it is created to its final disposal. This includes its generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal, and applies to mixed wastes containing radioactive material as well.
Hazardous waste recycling, hazardous waste management, and the responsibilities of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning regulations apply to treatment, storage, and disposal facilities are part of this 'cradle to grave' system. Producers of hazardous waste must comply with the detailed regulations under RCRA for the handling of waste, to ensure the protection of human health and the environment.
Under the statutory definition, hazardous waste can pose a substantial threat to health and the environment if not managed properly. The RCRA framework has been essential in regulating the proper disposal of hazardous materials to prevent environmental contamination and maintain public health.