What is a disadvantage of outsourcing hazardous waste disposal for ABC?

• A. Loss of control over how toxic materials are handled.
• B. Access to better disposal technology.
• C. Higher in-house expertise.
• D. Improved supply chain visibility.

Answer: (A)

When ABC outsources hazardous waste disposal, it exchanges some direct control of how materials are handled for efficiency and external expertise. That loss of day-to-day oversight means ABC relies on the vendor’s standards, practices, and compliance with safety and environmental rules. If the chosen firm mishandles waste, ABC can face legal liability, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage, even though the disposal is managed externally. Communication gaps or delays with the vendor can also obscure what exactly happens to the waste, making it harder to verify safe and compliant treatment and track documentation.

The other options describe potential benefits of outsourcing or positive outcomes, such as access to advanced disposal technologies, enhanced expertise, or improved visibility with the right reporting, but they do not capture the core drawback of giving up control over handling practices.