Proceedings of the UNEP Chemicals Workshop on the Management of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Dioxins/Furans

This document is a formal proceedings report from a UNEP Chemicals regional training workshop jointly organized with the Government of Cameroon, held in Yaoundé from 17 to 20 April 2000, focusing on the identification and management of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), specifically polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxins/furans, in West and Francophone Africa. It compiles expert presentations, technical guidance, national case studies, and the outcomes of working group discussions. Key themes include inventory methodologies, health and environmental risk evaluation, legal frameworks, and disposal and treatment options. The workshop emphasized capacity-building, awareness-raising, and cooperation in preparation for the anticipated global POPs convention. Approximately 80 government experts from 17 countries, along with representatives from international and regional organizations, participated and contributed to a set of recommendations outlining regional priorities and national strategies for mitigating the risks associated with PCBs and dioxins/furans.