Case 241 - To Trade or Not to Trade? The Basel Convention and the Transboundary Movement and Disposal of Hazardous Wastes

Bunn, Julia A. and David Blaney On March 22, 1989, 105 states and the European Community (E.C.) signed the Basel Convention, which regulates the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes; the agreement entered into force three years later, and was strengthened in 1994 and 1997. While developing nations pushed for a total ban on such exports, most developed nations advocated a more incremental approach to the problem. This case study can be used to examine how, on a global scale, the free flow of wastes in response to economic incentives can lead to a disproportionate amount of waste being situated near poorer populations, particularly people of color; and the role of government regulations in shaping those incentives. It is well-suited for courses in international trade, environmental economics and environmental studies, or classes dealing with international organizations and global political economy. This case is sufficiently rich in material that it can be used in a number of teachi