Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that aims to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to developing countries. It establishes a framework for the management and disposal of hazardous wastes, promoting environmentally sound practices and preventing environmental harm, especially in the context of global operations that must comply with various environmental regulations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted in 1989 and entered into force in 1992, currently involving over 180 countries.
2. It emphasizes the principle of 'prior informed consent,' meaning that countries must agree to the import of hazardous waste before it can be sent to them.
3. The convention categorizes waste into two groups: hazardous and non-hazardous, with specific guidelines for the disposal of each type.
4. Parties to the Basel Convention are required to minimize the generation of hazardous waste and promote the environmentally sound management of such wastes.
5. The Basel Protocol was proposed to further strengthen the convention by regulating transboundary movements of e-waste specifically.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention influence global trade practices regarding hazardous waste?
  • The Basel Convention influences global trade practices by establishing strict regulations on the transboundary movement of hazardous waste. Countries that are parties to the convention must comply with its requirements, ensuring that hazardous waste is not exported without prior informed consent from the receiving country. This helps prevent developed nations from dumping their hazardous waste in developing countries, promoting more responsible management practices across borders.
• In what ways does the Basel Convention address the challenges associated with e-waste management globally?
  • The Basel Convention addresses challenges related to e-waste by providing a framework for the safe and environmentally sound management of electronic waste. It recognizes that e-waste contains hazardous materials that can harm human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. The convention encourages member states to develop national strategies for managing e-waste, implement recycling programs, and ensure that any transboundary movement of e-waste adheres to strict regulations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in achieving its goals related to hazardous waste management and environmental protection.
  • The effectiveness of the Basel Convention can be evaluated through its impact on reducing hazardous waste exports from developed to developing countries and fostering greater awareness of environmental protection. While it has made significant strides in regulating hazardous waste movements and promoting environmentally sound practices, challenges remain. Issues such as illegal dumping and non-compliance by some nations still undermine its goals. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms and expanding cooperation among countries could enhance its effectiveness in achieving sustainable waste management globally.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste: Waste material that poses a potential threat to public health or the environment due to its toxic, explosive, or otherwise harmful nature.

E-Waste: Electronic waste, consisting of discarded electronic devices and components, which can contain hazardous materials and requires careful management to prevent environmental contamination.

Waste Management: The collection, transport, processing, recycling, or disposal of waste materials in a manner that protects human health and the environment.