Basel Convention

Definition

The Basel Convention is an international treaty designed to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between nations, particularly from developed to developing countries. It emphasizes environmentally sound management and disposal of hazardous waste, aiming to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of such waste. The treaty reflects a collective effort by countries to address the global issue of hazardous waste and aligns with broader environmental goals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Basel Convention was adopted in 1989 and came into force in 1992, with over 180 parties currently adhering to it.
2. One of the key provisions of the Basel Convention is that countries must ensure that hazardous waste is managed in an environmentally sound manner, which includes proper treatment and disposal methods.
3. The convention prohibits the export of hazardous waste to countries that do not have the capacity to manage it safely, particularly focusing on protecting developing nations from becoming dumping grounds.
4. Amendments to the Basel Convention have been made over the years to address new challenges, including electronic waste and plastic waste management.
5. Regular meetings are held by the parties to review progress and make decisions regarding implementation and future amendments to enhance the effectiveness of the convention.

Review Questions

• How does the Basel Convention aim to address the issue of hazardous waste movement between developed and developing countries?
  • The Basel Convention aims to tackle hazardous waste movement by setting strict regulations that prohibit developed countries from exporting hazardous waste to developing nations that may lack proper management facilities. The treaty mandates that any transboundary movement must be conducted in an environmentally sound manner. This ensures that developing countries are not exploited as dumping grounds for toxic waste and promotes responsible waste management practices globally.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Basel Convention in achieving its goals since its implementation in 1992.
  • Since its implementation, the Basel Convention has been somewhat effective in raising awareness about hazardous waste management and establishing a framework for international cooperation. However, challenges remain due to inadequate enforcement in some member states and ongoing illegal dumping practices. While it has succeeded in reducing hazardous waste transfers to some extent, continuous updates and improvements are necessary to tackle emerging issues like e-waste and plastic pollution effectively.
• Assess how the principles established by the Basel Convention can be integrated into global policies addressing plastic pollution.
  • The principles established by the Basel Convention can significantly inform global policies on plastic pollution by emphasizing the need for responsible production, use, and disposal of plastics. By adopting measures similar to those in the Basel framework—such as banning exports of plastic waste to countries ill-equipped for safe processing—nations can work towards minimizing plastic's environmental impact. Additionally, applying an environmentally sound management approach could enhance recycling efforts and promote alternatives to single-use plastics, leading to a more sustainable circular economy.

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.

Stockholm Convention: An international treaty aimed at eliminating or restricting the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which are harmful to human health and the environment.

Waste Management: The collection, transport, processing, recycling, or disposal of waste materials in a way that protects human health and the environment.