Global Action On Chemicals

Global Action On Chemicals: Recently, at the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions Conference of the Parties (COPs) 2025 in Geneva, India made key contributions to global environmental governance.

• The discussions focused on the sustainable management of chemicals and waste.
• About the BRS Conventions : Are international environmental agreements aimed at safeguarding human health and the environment from the harmful effects of hazardous chemicals and waste.

o Conference Theme: “Make visible the invisible: Sound management of chemicals and wastes,” reflecting India’s focus on environmental regulation and leadership in addressing global pollution, especially plastic waste.

• India’s Regulatory Framework:

o Key Focus: India highlighted the role of finance, technology transfer, and international cooperation in achieving BRS Conventions’ goals.

o National Legislation: India’s Environment (Protection) Act, Hazardous and Other Wastes Management Rules, and E-Waste Management Rules (2016) were emphasized as essential tools for sustainable governance.

o Leadership in Waste Management: India’s institutional and technical investments position it as a leader in sustainable waste management, setting an example for global action.

• India’s Role in the Global Fight Against Plastic Pollution

o Consultation with Norway: India participated in a consultation on the ongoing work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on plastic pollution.

o Domestic Efforts: India has implemented domestic bans on specific single-use plastics and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging.

o Global Advocacy: Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India introduced a resolution on single-use plastics at UNEA-4, bringing the issue to the global forefront.