The main objective of the Basel Convention is to protect human health and the environment against the adverse effects of hazardous wastes.

The Basel Convention is an international treaty that was adopted in 1989 and entered into force in 1992. It is named after the city of Basel in Switzerland, where it was negotiated. The convention aims to address the increasing global concern about the transboundary movement and disposal of hazardous wastes.

Protecting Human Health:
One of the main objectives of the Basel Convention is to protect human health. Hazardous wastes can pose significant risks to human health if not properly managed and disposed of. These wastes can contain toxic substances that can contaminate air, water, and soil, leading to adverse health effects for individuals living in proximity to disposal sites or exposed to such wastes during transportation. By regulating the transboundary movement and disposal of these wastes, the convention helps to minimize the potential risks to human health.

Protecting the Environment:
Another key objective of the Basel Convention is to protect the environment. Hazardous wastes can have severe ecological consequences if not managed appropriately. When these wastes are disposed of improperly, they can contaminate soil, water bodies, and ecosystems, leading to the destruction of biodiversity and the disruption of ecological processes. The convention aims to prevent such environmental degradation by regulating the movement and disposal of hazardous wastes.

Reducing Illegal Dumping:
The Basel Convention also seeks to address the problem of illegal dumping. Hazardous wastes are often illegally dumped in developing countries with inadequate infrastructure and regulations for waste management. This not only puts the local population at risk but also contributes to environmental degradation. The convention establishes a framework for the environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes, including provisions for the control and monitoring of their transboundary movement, to prevent illegal dumping and promote responsible waste management practices.

Encouraging Cooperation and Technical Assistance:
The Basel Convention promotes international cooperation and technical assistance to assist countries in implementing its provisions. It recognizes the importance of capacity-building and the transfer of technology to enable countries, particularly developing nations, to effectively manage hazardous wastes. The convention encourages developed countries to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries to help them meet their obligations under the treaty.

In conclusion, the main objective of the Basel Convention is to protect human health and the environment against the adverse effects of hazardous wastes. By regulating the transboundary movement and disposal of these wastes, the convention aims to minimize the risks to human health, prevent environmental degradation, reduce illegal dumping, and promote international cooperation and technical assistance.