Paxton, a proprietor, intended to set up a recycling facility on one of his properties. He then contracted with Wal-Mart to recycle or dispose of various lamps and bulbs that contained spent mercury and other products that contained lead. Instead of recycling the items, Paxton crushed or shredded them and left them piled on the property. The state determined that there were hazardous waste violations and it filed suit.

CASE QUESTIONS

1. What federal statute(s) could apply to this case? Explain.

2. Citing the RCRA “cradle-to-grave” procedure, do you think Wal-

Mart was contributory in violation of the statute? Why or why not?