Define the term 'hazardous waste.'

Hazardous waste is defined as any waste material that poses a significant risk to human health or the environment. This definition encompasses various types of materials that can be harmful if disposed of improperly, including chemicals, heavy metals, and other toxic substances. The key characteristic of hazardous waste is its potential to cause injury or damage, necessitating careful handling, treatment, and disposal methods to mitigate dangers.

For instance, if hazardous waste is not managed correctly, it can lead to pollution of air, water, and soil, ultimately affecting public health and ecological systems. Therefore, recognizing and categorizing waste as hazardous is crucial for implementing proper safety measures and compliance with environmental regulations.

Other options, such as waste that is easy to recycle, biodegradable waste, or waste that has no impact on health, do not capture the essence of hazardous waste. These characterizations may refer to types of waste that are considered safe or environmentally friendly, which is fundamentally different from the inherent risks associated with hazardous waste.