The Basel

The Basel Convention is a global environmental agreement that addresses the transboundary movement and disposal of hazardous and other wastes. Its work focuses on protecting people and the environment by strengthening controls on waste trade, supporting environmentally sound management, and helping countries prevent and respond to illegal traffic. The Convention’s website provides information on its rules, amendments, meetings, decisions, and implementation programmes, alongside resources for countries, officials, researchers, businesses, and civil society.

Its activities cover a wide range of waste issues, including electronic waste, batteries, tyres, plastics, mercury, persistent organic pollutants, ships, household waste, used textiles, and materials containing nanomaterials. The Convention develops technical guidelines and tools, supports national reporting and export-import controls, and promotes cooperation through technical assistance, regional centres, partnerships, webinars, workshops, and publications. It also helps countries apply the prior informed consent procedure for international waste movements and improve its effectiveness. Through its governing bodies and implementation and compliance mechanisms, the Basel Convention offers guidance, capacity-building resources, and a forum for international cooperation on waste management challenges.