Basel Convention

About

The Basel Convention is an international treaty aimed at regulating the transboundary movements of hazardous and other wastes. Adopted in 1989 and entering into force in 1992, it seeks to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of hazardous waste generation, management, and disposal. The Convention applies to a wide range of wastes, including hazardous wastes and categories like household waste and electronic waste. It emphasizes environmentally sound management practices, encouraging waste minimization and disposal as close as possible to the source of generation. Key provisions include the requirement for prior informed consent from importing and transit countries before waste shipments can occur. The Convention also prohibits exports to non-parties unless under a separate agreement that ensures equally sound management. Parties must submit annual reports on waste movements and adhere to international standards for packaging, labeling, and transport. The Basel Convention has been strengthened over time with amendments, such as the Ban Amendment and recent updates addressing plastic and electronic waste. It plays a crucial role in promoting global cooperation on waste management and environmental protection.