What's Happening?
The ongoing debate over the compatibility of the Basel Convention and the Hong Kong Convention has been addressed in a recent op-ed. The Basel Convention, established in 1989, focuses on controlling the transboundary movements of hazardous wastes, while
the Hong Kong Convention, adopted in 2009, aims to ensure environmentally sound recycling of ships. The op-ed argues that the perceived conflict between these conventions is not legal but rather economic and political. It highlights that under the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a true conflict arises only when two treaties impose mutually exclusive obligations. The op-ed suggests that both conventions can operate concurrently without legal conflict, as they govern different stages of a ship's lifecycle.
Why It's Important?
The analysis of the Basel and Hong Kong Conventions is significant for policymakers, shipowners, and environmental advocates. Understanding the legal compatibility of these conventions is crucial for developing effective international regulations on hazardous waste management and ship recycling. The op-ed emphasizes the need for harmonizing these frameworks to address economic and institutional challenges faced by developing countries. This could lead to improved environmental protection and sustainable practices in the ship recycling industry, benefiting both developed and developing nations.
