Which of the following best defines liquid waste?

Liquid waste is best defined as any waste that is in a liquid form and includes substances that can pose hazards to health and the environment. This definition encompasses a wide variety of substances, including sewage from households and businesses, industrial wastewater produced by factories, and chemicals that may be disposed of improperly. Additionally, oil spills are significant contributors to liquid waste and can cause severe environmental contamination.

The other options primarily describe solid waste or non-liquid materials. Household garbage and plastics involve solid waste, while used paper and metals and organic waste and construction debris refer to waste types that do not exist in a liquid form, making them unsuitable as definitions for liquid waste. Thus, the choice that includes these various forms of liquid contaminants clearly captures the essence of liquid waste management and its implications for community health and safety.