2025 Triple COPs Underway in Geneva to Tackle Global Chemical and Waste Challenges

The 2025 Triple COPs—joint meetings of the Conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions—are currently taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 28 April to 9 May 2025. Delegates from around the world have gathered under the theme: “Make Visible the Invisible: Sound Management of Chemicals and Wastes.”

Opening of the Triple COPs

The meetings officially opened on 28 April at the Geneva International Conference Centre. Delegates adopted the agendas and elected officers for each convention. The opening day focused on procedural groundwork and setting the stage for detailed negotiations.

High-Level Segment Highlights

A high-level segment is being held from the afternoon of 30 April to the morning of 1 May, giving ministers and senior officials a platform to reaffirm political commitment. Key issues include the conventions' role in addressing pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change.

Key Side Events and Themes

Throughout the two-week conference, a series of side events and thematic discussions explore critical issues in chemicals and waste management:

• Gender and Toxic Exposures– Addressing gender-related disparities in chemical safety
• Illicit Trade of End-of-Life Ships – Tackling illegal ship disposal
• Plastic and E-Waste Trafficking – Combating illegal waste trade
• Circular Economy for Minerals and Metals – Promoting sustainable resource use
• Youth Engagement – Empowering youth for a pollution-free future

“Make Visible the Invisible” Fair

From 30 April to 2 May, an on-site exhibition is showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions aimed at safer chemical and waste management. The fair enables stakeholders to present innovations aligned with the objectives of the three conventions.

Looking Ahead: Key Agenda Items

As negotiations continue, the following topics are central to the sessions:

• Strategic Framework 2025–2031 – Laying out a roadmap for Basel Convention implementation
• Updated Technical Guidelines – Enhancing waste management practices
• Legal Reforms – Improving compliance and enforcement mechanisms