Geneva Environment Network 7d ago

This side event will contribute to the agenda of the 15th meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group of the Basel Convention. It directly links to agenda item 3.(d) on international collaboration and cooperation, and is relevant to the overall OEWG, given its focus on the pivotal role of collaboration and cooperation on science-policy interfaces for environmentally sound management of waste. A substantial body of scientific and technical information already exists to guide policy discussions on waste, amongst others the UNEP Global Waste Management Outlook, the BRS COPs decisions, technical guidelines and Partnership initiatives, and the Minamata Convention’s decisions on mercury waste—along with the work of the Global Mercury Partnership. UNEP and MEAs will bring their experience in bridging the science policy interface to inform decisions, and generating valuable evidence, assessments, and practical experience on the environmentally sound management of hazardous and other wastes. With the establishment of the intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP) in June 2025, the side event will explore how the Panel could connect with, exchange and contribute to existing mechanisms, and how these mechanisms in turn can inform and support the work of the ISP-CWP. Early engagement will help independent, policy-relevant science reach policy makers, avoid duplication and enhance synergies. The discussion will consider how the Panel could complement and inform ongoing work, support Parties’ implementation needs, and strengthen coherence across the international chemicals and waste agenda. By facilitating an exchange on the latest scientific findings and policy needs in the waste area, the side event aims to start exploring how the ISP-CWP’s work can enhance the implementation of the Basel Convention, particularly in addressing complex waste challenges and promoting environmentally sound management of waste. It aims at strengthening collaboration and partnerships on waste or specific waste streams, and aligning with the Convention’s objectives and the ISP-CWP’s mission to bridge the science-policy divide.