ABSTRACT
The three global conventions covered in this chapter address the problems caused by different types of hazardous substances, namely wastes, chemicals and pesticides that are dangerous for human health and the environment. The 1989 Basel Convention is concerned with hazardous wastes and their transboundary movements. It imposes obligations on states parties to ensure that such wastes are managed and disposed of in an environmentally sound manner while permitting countries to prohibit imports. The chapter deals with instruments tackling the environmental risks created by modern nuclear technology, including radioactive contamination and the spread of toxic substances. The Convention on Nuclear Safety and the Joint Convention, adopted under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1994 and 1997, respectively, are two global treaties committing states to control the risks of nuclear energy in view of environmental objectives.
