Answer By law4u team
The Basel Convention, adopted in 1989, is an international treaty designed to regulate and reduce the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and their disposal to protect human health and the environment. India, as a party to the convention since 1992, has actively participated in its implementation through national legislation and policy measures aimed at controlling hazardous waste and promoting environmentally sound management.
Main Objectives and Provisions of the Basel Convention
Control of Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Waste
Regulates cross-border shipment of hazardous and other wastes to prevent illegal dumping and ensure safe handling.
Environmentally Sound Management (ESM)
Promotes proper treatment, recycling, recovery, and disposal of hazardous wastes to minimize environmental harm.
Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Procedure
Requires exporters to obtain consent from importing countries before shipment of hazardous wastes.
Minimization of Hazardous Waste Generation
Encourages reducing waste production at the source through cleaner technologies and sustainable practices.
Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
Supports developing countries in improving waste management infrastructure and expertise.
India’s Role in the Basel Convention
Ratification and Compliance: India ratified the Basel Convention in 1992 and integrates its provisions into domestic laws such as the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.
Regulatory Framework: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) oversees hazardous waste management and ensures compliance with Basel guidelines.
International Cooperation: India actively participates in meetings and working groups under the convention to share best practices and strengthen global waste governance.
Awareness and Enforcement: Steps have been taken to monitor imports of electronic waste and hazardous materials, preventing illegal trade and dumping.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: India encourages waste minimization, recycling, and cleaner production technologies across industries.
Challenges
Managing increasing volumes of e-waste and hazardous waste imports.
Ensuring effective enforcement at ports and borders.
Enhancing infrastructure and technology for safe waste disposal.
Example
Suppose a company in Europe wants to export electronic waste to India. Under the Basel Convention, the exporter must seek prior informed consent from Indian authorities, ensuring the waste will be handled safely. Indian regulators inspect the shipment to verify compliance with hazardous waste management rules, preventing illegal dumping and environmental harm.
Steps involved:
Exporter submits shipment details and requests consent from Indian authorities.
Indian regulators assess the environmental risks and approve or reject the shipment.
Upon arrival, customs and environmental officials inspect the waste.
Safe disposal or recycling is ensured under India’s hazardous waste rules.
India reports the transaction to the Basel Secretariat to maintain transparency.
