Book excerpt: Although interest in managing old and unwanted consumer products with characteristics of hazardous waste--household cleaners, pesticides, paint products, and automotive products--emerged in the late 1970s, the management of such materials has been a bouncing ball of responsibility for more than two decades. Written by the forefathers and practitioners of household hazardous waste management (HHW), this book provides solid waste management professionals, municipal officials, and environmental students with a comprehensive look at the state of HHW management.