Rotterdam Convention

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Template:Distinguish2 Template:Use dmy dates Template:Infobox Treaty The Rotterdam Convention (formally, the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade) is a multilateral treaty to promote shared responsibilities in relation to importation of hazardous chemicals. The convention promotes open exchange of information and calls on exporters of hazardous chemicals to use proper labeling, include directions on safe handling, and inform purchasers of any known restrictions or bans. Signatory nations can decide whether to allow or ban the importation of chemicals listed in the treaty, and exporting countries are obliged to make sure that producers within their jurisdiction comply.

In 2012, the Secretariats of the Basel and Stockholm conventions, as well as the UNEP-part of the Rotterdam Convention Secretariat, merged to a single Secretariat with a matrix structure serving the three conventions.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The three conventions now hold back to back Conferences of the Parties as part of their joint synergies decisions.

The seventh meeting of the Rotterdam Conference<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> was held from 4 May to 15 May 2015 in Geneva, Switzerland.

Substances covered under the Convention

Substances proposed for addition to the Convention

The Chemical Review Committee of the Rotterdam Convention decided<ref>Chemicals recommended for listing in Annex III.</ref> to recommend to the seventh Conference of the parties meeting in 2015 that it consider the listing of the following chemicals in Annex III to the Convention:

  • Chrysotile asbestos (discussion deferred from the previous meeting of the Conference of the Parties).
  • Fenthion (ultra low volume (ULV) formulations at or above 640 g active ingredient/L)
  • Liquid formulations (emulsifiable concentrate and soluble concentrate) containing paraquat dichloride at or above 276 g/L, corresponding to paraquat ion at or above 200 g/L
  • Trichlorfon

State parties

As of November 2016, the convention has 156 parties, which includes 154 UN member states, the Cook Islands, and the European Union. Non-member states include the United States, Turkey, Iraq, and Angola.

Canada's controversial stand on chrysotile in 2011

At the 2011 meeting of the Rotterdam Convention in Geneva, the Canadian delegation surprised many with a refusal to allow the addition of chrysotile asbestos fibers to the Rotterdam Convention.<ref>Canadian Cancer Society Reacts to Conservative Harper Administration's Position on Chrysotile, 23 June 2011</ref><ref>Canadian comedienne fails to see humor in Canadian position on treaty</ref><ref>UN Delegates Shocked at Canadian Stand on Chrysotile, 24 June 2011</ref><ref>Canadian Physicians criticize own government</ref> Hearings are scheduled in the EU in the near future to evaluate the position of Canada and decide on the possibility of a punitive course of action.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

In continuing its objection, Canada is the only G8 country objecting to the listing. Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Ukraine also objected. Vietnam had also raised an objection, but missed a follow-up meeting on the issue.<ref>Canada Wins 2-year Stay on Potential Ban of Exports of Chrysotile Asbestos to India</ref> In taking its position, the Canadian Government contrasted with India, which withdrew its long-standing objection to the addition of chrysotile to the list just prior to the 2011 conference.<ref>India: position advocating the addition of chrysotile to Rotterdam Convention, May 31, 2011</ref>

Numerous non-governmental organizations have publicly expressed criticism of Canada's decision to block this addition.<ref>Women In Europe for a Concerned Future criticize Canada's stance in 2011</ref><ref>2011 Rotterdam Convention Decision criticized by environmental groups</ref><ref>Canadian Cancer Society denounces decision by Canadian Government</ref><ref>International Ban Asbestos Secretariat issues statement critical of Canadian decision</ref><ref>Indian Center for Science and Environment issues statement criticizing Canada</ref>

In September 2012, Canadian Industry minister Christian Paradis announced the Canadian government would no longer oppose inclusion of chrysotile in the convention.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

See also

References

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External links

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