Basel Agreement 3: What You Need to Know

The Basel Agreement 3, also known as the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, is an international treaty that aims to prevent the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes from developed countries to developing countries. The agreement also seeks to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of the production, transport, and disposal of hazardous wastes.

Background

The Basel Agreement was first signed in 1989 and has been amended twice since then. The latest amendment, known as the Basel Agreement 3, was adopted in 2019 and expands the scope of the treaty to cover a wider range of hazardous wastes, including plastic waste. The amendment was a response to the growing concern over the proliferation of plastic waste in the oceans and the adverse impact on marine life and the environment.

Key Provisions

The Basel Agreement 3 imposes stricter regulations on the movement and disposal of hazardous wastes. It requires countries to obtain prior informed consent before exporting hazardous wastes to other countries. The agreement also sets out guidelines for the environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes, including recycling and disposal.

One of the significant changes introduced by the Basel Agreement 3 is the classification of plastic waste as a hazardous material. This means that the exporting countries must comply with the same regulations that apply to other hazardous wastes. The amendment also encourages countries to reduce their production and consumption of single-use plastics and to promote sustainable alternatives.

Impact

The Basel Agreement 3 is an important step towards addressing the global problem of plastic waste and its impact on the environment. By extending the treaty`s scope to cover plastic waste, the agreement sends a clear message about the urgent need to address this issue. The treaty also creates a framework for international cooperation in the management of hazardous wastes, which is critical in addressing the transboundary movement of hazardous materials.

Conclusion

The implementation of the Basel Agreement 3 is a critical step towards mitigating the adverse impact of hazardous wastes on the environment and human health. The agreement sets out clear guidelines for the environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes and encourages countries to reduce their production and consumption of single-use plastics. By working together, countries can promote sustainable waste management practices and protect the planet for future generations.