What defines a "hazardous substance" under CERCLA?

The definition of a "hazardous substance" under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) encompasses any substance that poses a potential risk to human health or the environment. This broad definition includes a wide range of materials that can lead to significant health problems, ecological damage, or contamination of air, water, or soil, regardless of the circumstances in which they are found.

This comprehensive understanding is essential because it ensures that a wide variety of potential hazards are addressed, ranging from chemicals commonly found in industrial settings to those that may be encountered in everyday life. The focus on the potential for harm emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and management of these substances to prevent adverse effects.

In contrast, the other choices are too narrow and do not capture the complete scope of what constitutes a hazardous substance under CERCLA. For example, limiting the definition to only radioactive substances excludes many harmful materials that are not radioactive but are nonetheless hazardous. Similarly, characterizing hazardous substances solely as materials that can be recycled or only those that are harmful in large quantities overlooks the potential risks associated with smaller amounts or different forms of hazardous substances. Understanding this broad definition is crucial for those involved in hazardous materials management and response strategies.