Strengthening controls for transboundary movements of waste
The growing burden of waste management around the world is a serious challenge, with hazardous waste increasing at an alarming rate due to industrial expansion, urbanisation and changing consumer patterns. This type of waste poses significant risks to human health and the environment if not properly handled. Importing countries that accept to receive wastes from another country through transboundary movements, need to be fully aware of what is coming their way and ensure that they have the required facilities to dispose of the wastes in an environmentally sound manner. Recognizing the importance of strengthening the Basel Convention’s procedure to control transboundary movements of wastes, the Expert Working Group (EWG) on the review of Annexes embarked on a critical review of Annex IV — the section of the Convention that sets out the waste disposal operations — with the goal of clarifying the global waste rules and making sure they are better enforced. The EWG held meetings as part of this review from 28 November – 1 December 2023 and from 3 – 6 September 2024.
“The new Annex IV, brings clarity to a carefully crafted control procedure, reducing ambiguity and helping countries apply the Basel Convention in support of environmentally sound management worldwide.”
Perine Kasonde (Co-chair)
The Solution — An Expert Working Group Advancing Annex IV Revisions
The work of the EWG has led to the adoption of a new Annex IV with clarified and updated descriptions of the disposal operations in Annex IV which will improve environmental controls. The EWG also emphasized the need for guidance to help with the implementation of the updated annex. They also recommended updating key documents—such as notification forms, instructions, and reporting formats, prior to the revised annex entering into force on 1 January 2030.
Driving Global Harmonization Through Collaboration
This achievement was made possible through strong cooperation among a wide range of experts from governments, industry, civil society and Basel Convention Regional with Centres, with financial support from the Governments of Germany, Norway, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, Switzerland, and the European Union. Their combined and sustained financial support, technical knowledge, and political backing led to the successful revision of Annex IV. Continued collaboration, capacity-building, and political commitment will be essential to ensure effective implementation. We thank all partners and call on stakeholders everywhere to adopt these changes, strengthen national systems, and work together for a safer, healthier planet.
“The real impact of these changes will be seen in how countries implement them. Continued support and collaboration are key to translating this progress into safer practices on the ground.”
—Artak Khachatryan (Co-chair)
