Each state is required to develop a plan for dealing with its low level radioactive waste in order to be allowed access to operating landfills. Vermont has made slow progress in this area. Chemical Waste Hazardous chemicals are disposed of at UVM through regularly scheduled hazardous waste pick-ups. Hazardous waste is defined by the state of Vermont, following EPA regulations. There is no fee for this service, as it is centrally funded.
Chemical waste is disposed of in several different ways.
Flammable liquids and solids are incinerated. This is the preferred option, because it destroys the chemical and its associated hazards. Some materials may be landfilled, but this option has been made illegal by the EPA for most chemical wastes. There are many ways to manage chemical use to minimize the waste generated, and thus the cost of disposal. It should be noted that the University is required by regulation to minimize the amount of hazardous waste it generates.