The general assembly finds and declares that the improper treatment, storage, or disposal of solid and hazardous waste generated in this state poses a significant threat to the integrity of the environment and the public health; that ensuring the proper treatment, storage, or disposal of solid and hazardous waste is a public purpose in the best interests of all citizens of this state; and that the only way to accomplish this purpose is to provide for the siting, design, construction, operation, and use of environmentally acceptable solid and hazardous waste facilities.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-103-1