Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that aims to reduce the movement of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to developing countries. It establishes a framework for the environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes and promotes the reduction of waste generation at the source. This agreement highlights the global commitment to protecting human health and the environment from the adverse effects of hazardous waste.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted on March 22, 1989, and entered into force on May 5, 1992.
2. The treaty has been ratified by over 180 countries, making it one of the most widely recognized agreements addressing hazardous waste management.
3. The Basel Convention requires countries to minimize the generation of hazardous wastes and ensure their environmentally sound management and disposal.
4. It sets strict controls on transboundary movements of hazardous wastes, allowing such movements only under specific conditions to protect vulnerable nations.
5. The Convention also encourages technological cooperation and training programs among parties to improve waste management practices globally.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention impact global trade in hazardous waste?
  • The Basel Convention significantly impacts global trade in hazardous waste by imposing strict controls on its transboundary movements. It aims to prevent developed countries from exporting their hazardous waste to developing nations, where environmental regulations may be less stringent. This not only protects vulnerable countries from becoming dumping grounds but also promotes sustainable waste management practices that prioritize reduction and recycling at the source.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in achieving its goals related to hazardous waste management.
  • The effectiveness of the Basel Convention can be evaluated through its widespread ratification and implementation among countries, which indicates a global commitment to managing hazardous waste responsibly. However, challenges remain, including illegal trafficking of hazardous wastes and compliance issues among some parties. The Convention's ongoing revisions and additional protocols aim to address these challenges and enhance its effectiveness in promoting environmentally sound management practices.
• Analyze how the principles established by the Basel Convention relate to broader concepts of sustainable development and environmental justice.
  • The principles established by the Basel Convention directly relate to sustainable development by emphasizing the need for environmentally sound management and reduction of hazardous waste generation. This alignment fosters a holistic approach to addressing environmental issues while ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of human health or ecological integrity. Furthermore, it connects to environmental justice by promoting equitable treatment across nations, especially ensuring that developing countries are not disproportionately affected by hazardous waste exports from wealthier nations. This intersection reinforces the importance of global cooperation in achieving sustainability goals.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste: Waste that poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment due to its quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics.

E-Waste: Electronic waste, which includes discarded electrical or electronic devices that can contain hazardous materials requiring special handling and disposal.

Environmental Justice: The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in environmental policies and practices, ensuring that no group bears a disproportionate share of negative environmental consequences.