Toxic waste, also called hazardous waste, may take many forms, from nuclear radiation to air, wind, ground, and water pollution, and is caused by the careless use or accidental spills of toxic chemicals. These and other forms of waste often result in the destruction of our forests and waterways and pollute the atmosphere and soil. Toxic waste began as a byproduct of the commercial and manufacturing activities of industrialization but has since expanded and is now a problem among other industries as well, including medical, agricultural, and military industries. Toxic waste is often hazardous to the environment and human health and can increase mortality and morbidities for those who are exposed.

Rachel Carson's book, Silent Spring, published in 1962, spawned new concerns for how environmental ...