A hazardous waste is characterized by its potential to cause:

The primary characteristic of hazardous waste lies in its potential to cause illness, death, or other harm to human health and the environment. This definition is crucial as it emphasizes the hazardous nature of materials that can pose risks if not managed properly. Hazardous waste can contain toxic substances that, when exposed to humans or the ecosystem, can lead to serious health issues, including chronic diseases, acute poisoning, and even fatal outcomes. This potential for harm is the cornerstone for classifying waste as hazardous and guides regulations and safety protocols to protect workers, the public, and the environment.

In contrast, while cleanup costs, loss of property value, and increased demand for landfill space may be concerns associated with hazardous waste, they don't define what actually makes waste hazardous. These factors might stem from the presence of hazardous waste but do not encompass the inherent dangers posed by the waste itself. Focusing on the direct threats to health and safety helps to prioritize the response and management strategies needed for hazardous waste.