Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that aims to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between countries, particularly from developed to developing nations. It establishes a framework for the management and disposal of hazardous waste to protect human health and the environment, emphasizing environmentally sound practices. This convention plays a critical role in hazardous waste management by promoting responsible disposal methods and regulating transboundary movements of waste.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted in 1989 and entered into force in 1992, with over 180 countries currently party to it.
2. One key goal of the Basel Convention is to reduce the generation of hazardous waste and promote its minimization at the source.
3. The convention requires prior informed consent from exporting countries before hazardous waste can be sent to another country.
4. It provides guidelines for the environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes and sets standards for treatment and disposal methods.
5. The Basel Convention has been instrumental in reducing illegal dumping of hazardous waste in developing countries by establishing strict regulations on transboundary movements.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention influence global practices regarding hazardous waste management?
  • The Basel Convention significantly impacts global practices by providing a legally binding framework for the control of transboundary movements of hazardous waste. It promotes responsible management practices that prioritize environmental protection and human health. By requiring prior informed consent for exports of hazardous waste, it ensures that countries are aware of and agree to the risks associated with receiving such materials, leading to safer disposal practices worldwide.
• What are some challenges faced by countries in adhering to the Basel Convention's guidelines on hazardous waste management?
  • Countries face various challenges in adhering to the Basel Convention's guidelines, including limited technical capacity for managing hazardous waste, insufficient infrastructure for safe disposal, and difficulties in enforcement of regulations. Developing nations may struggle with financial resources and technology needed for environmentally sound management. Additionally, illegal dumping activities can undermine efforts, as some entities seek cheaper disposal methods that violate the convention's principles.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in addressing the issue of hazardous waste trade between developed and developing countries.
  • The effectiveness of the Basel Convention in addressing hazardous waste trade is evident in its ability to raise awareness about environmental risks and promote safer practices. However, challenges such as illegal trade persist, undermining its goals. Continuous improvements are necessary for monitoring compliance and enforcement mechanisms. Evaluating its success requires looking at both reduced illegal dumping instances and increased capacity-building efforts in developing countries for better management of hazardous materials.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste: Waste that poses significant risks to human health or the environment due to its chemical properties, which may be toxic, reactive, ignitable, or corrosive.

Transboundary Movement: The transportation of hazardous waste across national borders, which is regulated under the Basel Convention to prevent illegal dumping and ensure safe disposal.

Environmentally Sound Management (ESM): A systematic approach to managing hazardous waste that minimizes its impact on human health and the environment through appropriate handling, treatment, and disposal practices.