Question

Which international agreement aims to control the transboundary transit of hazardous wastes and their disposal?

• A. Rotterdam Convention
• B. Basel Convention
• C. Minamata Convention
• D. Stockholm Convention

Hint:

• The Basel Convention is the primary international treaty regulating the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and their disposal.
• It aims to minimize hazardous waste generation and ensure their environmentally sound management.
• It employs a Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure for waste shipments.
• Rotterdam Convention: Trade in hazardous chemicals/pesticides.
• Minamata Convention: Mercury.
• Stockholm Convention: Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The correct answer to the question, "Which international agreement aims to control the transboundary transit of hazardous wastes and their disposal?", is the Basel Convention.

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that was adopted on 22 March 1989 and came into effect on 5 May 1992. Its primary objective is to protect human health and the environment against the adverse effects of hazardous wastes. The convention controls the movement of hazardous wastes across international borders and aims to reduce the amount and toxicity of wastes generated.

To achieve its objectives, the Basel Convention requires member countries to:

• Minimize the generation of hazardous wastes.
• Ensure environmentally sound management of wastes as close as possible to the source of generation.
• Reduce the movement of hazardous wastes across borders, particularly from developed to less developed countries.

By setting up a system of notification and consent, the Basel Convention ensures countries are informed and agree to any import of hazardous waste, thus preventing unexpected disposal and possible environmental damage.