Basel Convention Expands Control Over Global E-Waste Shipments

The Conference of the Parties (COP-15) to the Basel Convention has adopted new amendments to expand the global control of electronic and electrical waste (e-waste), requiring all transboundary shipments to undergo the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure starting January 1, 2025.

Strengthening Global E-Waste Rules

Building on the 2019 COP-14 decisions, COP-15 introduced further changes to Annexes II, VIII, and IX of the Convention. These updates aim to eliminate loopholes and ensure all e-waste – whether hazardous or non-hazardous – is appropriately regulated.

Clearer Definitions and Mandatory Testing

Parties agreed on updated technical guidelines that clarify the difference between used electrical equipment and e-waste. Exporters must now conduct functional testing and provide certification for any used equipment intended for direct reuse. Unverified or repairable equipment will be treated as waste, and if it contains hazardous components, it will be classified as hazardous waste.

National Enforcement Requirements

Countries are required to enhance their national systems for inspecting, reporting, and controlling e-waste shipments. The guidelines will continue to evolve to reflect advances in technologies such as batteries and solar panels.

Key Amendments by Annex

1. Annex II – New Entry Y49

Y49 was added to cover all other e-waste and waste components not already listed, making their movement subject to the PIC procedure. Exporting countries must notify and receive consent from importing and transit countries before shipment.

2. Annex VIII – Replacement of A1180 with A1181

A1181 now includes all hazardous e-waste and components contaminated with dangerous substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, or PCBs, provided they show hazardous traits defined under Annex III.

3. Annex IX – Deletion of Entries B1110 and B4030

These deletions remove exceptions for certain types of e-waste that were previously presumed non-hazardous. This change ensures broader application of the PIC procedure, closing gaps in regulation.

Effective Date

All new provisions and controls came into force on January 1, 2025.

Reference: Basil E-Waste