Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty designed to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to less developed countries. It aims to protect human health and the environment by regulating and controlling the transboundary movement of hazardous waste, ensuring that disposal is conducted in an environmentally sound manner.

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, with over 180 countries as parties to the treaty.
2. One of the key provisions of the Basel Convention is the requirement for prior informed consent before hazardous waste can be exported from one country to another.
3. The convention promotes the principle of waste minimization and encourages countries to develop strategies for reducing the generation of hazardous waste.
4. Developing nations are often targeted for the disposal of hazardous waste due to their weaker regulatory frameworks, which the Basel Convention seeks to address.
5. The Basel Convention has been instrumental in shaping national policies and regulations on hazardous waste management around the world.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention facilitate international cooperation in managing hazardous waste?
  • The Basel Convention facilitates international cooperation by establishing a framework for countries to communicate about hazardous waste movements. It requires nations to obtain prior informed consent before exporting hazardous waste, ensuring that importing countries are aware of and agree to receive such materials. This mechanism fosters collaboration among countries in developing responsible waste management practices while protecting human health and the environment from potential hazards associated with these wastes.
• Analyze the impact of the Basel Convention on developing nations regarding hazardous waste management.
  • The Basel Convention significantly impacts developing nations by aiming to prevent them from becoming dumping grounds for hazardous waste from wealthier countries. By establishing strict regulations on the transboundary movement of hazardous waste, it promotes awareness and encourages developing nations to adopt more stringent environmental policies. This can lead to improved local practices for hazardous waste management, better protection of public health, and enhanced international support for sustainable development initiatives in these regions.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in addressing global hazardous waste issues since its adoption.
  • Since its adoption, the effectiveness of the Basel Convention has been mixed. While it has successfully raised awareness about hazardous waste issues and encouraged many countries to adopt stricter regulations and policies, challenges remain in enforcement and compliance. Some nations still engage in illegal dumping practices or lack adequate infrastructure for safe waste disposal. Moreover, emerging concerns regarding e-waste have prompted calls for more comprehensive amendments to the convention. As global trade dynamics evolve, continuous evaluation and adaptation of the treaty are essential for its long-term success in addressing hazardous waste challenges.

Related terms

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

Transboundary Movement: The transportation of waste or materials across national borders, which can raise environmental and regulatory concerns.

Environmentally Sound Management: Practices that ensure waste is managed in a way that protects human health and the environment, minimizing adverse effects during its handling, transport, treatment, and disposal.