Key Inputs on Pollution, Chemicals and Waste Management for the UNEA-7 Ministerial Declaration - Secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions

This letter outlines initial considerations submitted by the secretariats of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm conventions for the development of the ministerial declaration of the seventh United Nations Environment Assembly. It emphasises pollution from hazardous chemicals and waste as a major barrier to sustainable development, highlighting links with human health risks, ecosystem damage and climate change. The document notes increasing global waste generation, unsustainable material consumption and emerging chemical contaminants. It also summarises scientific findings on pesticide pollution and waste management costs. The text proposes policy priorities including strengthened implementation of international agreements, environmentally sound management of chemicals and waste, prevention of illegal trade, and enhanced financial and technical support for developing countries.