Under RCRA, what is a significant concern regarding hazardous waste?

The significant concern regarding hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) revolves around preventing contamination of soil and water. Hazardous waste can pose serious risks to the environment and human health if not managed properly. Contaminants can leach from improperly stored or disposed hazardous waste into soil and groundwater, leading to long-term ecological damage and health hazards for communities.

Mitigating this risk is central to the goals of RCRA, which aims to protect human health and the environment from the potential dangers that hazardous waste poses. Proper regulation, treatment, and disposal methods are essential to minimize the possibility of harmful substances entering soil and water systems.

While the other options touch upon important environmental and sustainability themes, they do not represent the core concern of RCRA. Clearing agricultural residues may relate to waste management practices but does not specifically address hazardous waste. Increasing energy production from waste and promoting waste-to-energy conversion are more focused on waste utilization rather than the immediate dangers presented by hazardous waste itself. Thus, the priority remains on preventing contamination of vital natural resources.