Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty designed to reduce the movement of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to less developed countries. It establishes a framework for the management and disposal of hazardous waste and aims to protect human health and the environment by ensuring that such waste is handled safely and responsibly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted on March 22, 1989, in Basel, Switzerland, and came into force in 1992.
2. One of the key principles of the Basel Convention is the 'prior informed consent' requirement, which mandates that countries must be informed and agree before hazardous waste can be exported to them.
3. The convention aims not only to control the movement of hazardous waste but also encourages countries to reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated through better practices.
4. As of 2023, over 180 countries have ratified the Basel Convention, highlighting its global importance in addressing hazardous waste issues.
5. The convention has been amended several times to address emerging issues such as e-waste and plastic pollution, reflecting the evolving nature of global waste management challenges.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention address the issue of hazardous waste management on an international scale?
  • The Basel Convention addresses hazardous waste management by establishing a framework that requires nations to control and monitor the transboundary movement of hazardous waste. It emphasizes the need for prior informed consent from importing countries before any waste can be transferred. This helps to ensure that hazardous materials are disposed of responsibly and not sent to less developed countries where they may pose serious health risks.
• Discuss how the principles of the Basel Convention have influenced national policies regarding waste management in signatory countries.
  • The principles of the Basel Convention have significantly influenced national policies by encouraging signatory countries to implement stricter regulations on hazardous waste management. Many countries have adopted laws requiring responsible disposal practices, improved waste tracking systems, and increased public awareness about hazardous materials. The convention has prompted nations to prioritize reducing waste generation and enhancing recycling efforts as part of their environmental policies.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in reducing global hazardous waste movement, considering challenges such as illegal dumping and emerging waste types.
  • While the Basel Convention has made significant strides in regulating hazardous waste movement globally, challenges remain in its effectiveness. Issues like illegal dumping persist due to enforcement difficulties and variations in national regulations. Additionally, emerging waste types such as electronic waste and plastics require ongoing amendments to address new environmental threats. The convention's ability to adapt to these challenges will determine its long-term success in safeguarding public health and the environment against hazardous waste.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste: Waste that poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment due to its toxic, reactive, ignitable, or corrosive characteristics.

Waste Management: The collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of waste materials, aimed at minimizing their impact on health and the environment.

OECD Decision: A policy framework established by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that guides member countries in managing transboundary movements of hazardous waste.