Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that was designed to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between countries, particularly from developed to developing nations. It aims to protect human health and the environment by minimizing the generation of hazardous waste and ensuring its environmentally sound management. This treaty is critical in the context of global environmental policies, as it sets guidelines for waste management and promotes responsibility among nations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted on March 22, 1989, and came into force on May 5, 1992, with 188 countries participating as parties to the treaty.
2. One of the key principles of the Basel Convention is the 'polluter pays' principle, which holds that those who generate hazardous waste are responsible for its management and disposal.
3. The treaty prohibits the export of hazardous waste from developed countries to developing countries without consent, emphasizing the need for environmentally sound practices.
4. The Basel Convention encourages member states to minimize hazardous waste generation by promoting sustainable practices and recycling efforts.
5. It also establishes a framework for international cooperation and assistance to ensure that all countries can meet their obligations under the treaty.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention influence international policies regarding hazardous waste management?
  • The Basel Convention significantly influences international policies by establishing a legal framework that governs the movement and disposal of hazardous waste. It promotes responsible practices among member countries and emphasizes the need for environmentally sound management. By prohibiting the export of hazardous waste from developed to developing nations without consent, it helps protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems from harmful practices, fostering global accountability in waste management.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in reducing transboundary movement of hazardous waste.
  • The effectiveness of the Basel Convention in reducing transboundary movement of hazardous waste can be seen in its role in increasing awareness and improving regulations among participating countries. While there have been successes in promoting environmentally sound practices and reducing illegal dumping, challenges remain due to non-compliance by some nations and loopholes that still allow hazardous waste trafficking. Ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and enhance international cooperation are essential for further progress.
• Discuss the broader implications of the Basel Convention for global environmental justice and sustainable development.
  • The Basel Convention has broader implications for global environmental justice by addressing disparities in hazardous waste management between developed and developing countries. It promotes sustainable development by encouraging nations to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce waste generation at source. The emphasis on 'polluter pays' not only holds countries accountable but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards vulnerable communities affected by hazardous waste. Ultimately, the convention plays a critical role in aligning international efforts toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

Related terms

Hazardous Waste: Waste materials that pose a substantial or potential threat to public health or the environment due to their toxic, reactive, or corrosive nature.

E-Waste: Electronic waste that includes discarded electrical or electronic devices, often containing hazardous materials, requiring careful disposal and recycling.

Transboundary Movement: The transportation of waste across international borders, which can pose challenges in regulation and environmental protection.