Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty designed to reduce the movement of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to developing countries. Established in 1989, it aims to protect human health and the environment by regulating the transboundary movement of hazardous waste and promoting the environmentally sound management of such materials.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted in response to growing concerns over the global trade in hazardous waste and its impact on less developed countries.
2. One key aspect of the convention is that it prohibits the export of hazardous waste from developed countries to developing nations without prior informed consent.
3. Parties to the Basel Convention are required to minimize the generation of hazardous waste and ensure its environmentally sound management.
4. The treaty has been ratified by over 180 countries, making it one of the most widely adopted environmental treaties in history.
5. The Basel Convention also addresses issues related to e-waste, emphasizing the need for proper recycling and disposal practices to prevent environmental contamination.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention address the issue of hazardous waste management on a global scale?
  • The Basel Convention addresses hazardous waste management globally by establishing regulations for the transboundary movement of such waste. It aims to prevent developed countries from exporting their hazardous materials to developing nations, where they may lack proper disposal facilities. By requiring prior informed consent before such exports can take place, the convention promotes transparency and accountability among nations while emphasizing the need for environmentally sound management practices.
• What are some of the challenges faced by countries in implementing the Basel Convention's guidelines for hazardous waste management?
  • Countries face several challenges in implementing the Basel Convention's guidelines, including limited resources and technical expertise for properly managing hazardous waste. In developing nations, there may be insufficient infrastructure for safe disposal or recycling practices, leading to illegal dumping and environmental contamination. Additionally, the complexity of international regulations can complicate enforcement efforts, as well as hinder cooperation among countries with differing priorities regarding environmental protection.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in addressing global environmental issues related to hazardous waste and e-waste since its inception.
  • The effectiveness of the Basel Convention in addressing global environmental issues has been mixed. While it has successfully raised awareness about hazardous waste management and led to greater collaboration among nations, challenges remain in terms of enforcement and compliance. The rise of e-waste has posed new hurdles that require adaptation of existing frameworks. Overall, while progress has been made, ongoing efforts are needed to strengthen regulations and ensure that all parties commit to environmentally sound practices, reflecting a shift towards sustainable development.

Related terms

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

Transboundary Movement: The transfer of waste across national borders, often raising concerns about environmental justice and the potential for environmental harm.

Environmentally Sound Management: The process of controlling hazardous waste in a manner that protects human health and the environment, including proper storage, treatment, and disposal.