The management of waste materials has become more complex with the increase in human population and the development of new substances. This illustrated booklet traces the history of waste management and provides guidelines for individuals and communities in disposing of certain hazardous wastes safely. It addresses such topics as: (1) how people have learned to manage wastes; (2) new ways of life (new products and new wastes); (3) wastes that are considered hazardous; (4) toxic wastes; (5) asbestos; (6) toxic metals; (7) organic solvents; (8) acids and bases; (9) pesticides; (10) why the old ways of waste disposal don't work for some wastes; (11) what you can do at home (reduction and recycling); (12) what a community can do with collected wastes (treatment, incineration); (13) hazardous waste landfills; (14) what you can do for your community; and (15) suggestions for handling particular wastes. (TW)