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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Bamako Convention
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A quick definition of Bamako Convention:
The Bamako Convention is a rule made in 1991 that says no one can bring dangerous waste into Africa or move it between African countries. The goal is to keep people and the environment safe from harm caused by hazardous waste. Only countries that are part of the Organization of African Unity can agree to follow the Bamako Convention. The rule also says we should try to make less waste in the first place and not dump it in the sea or other bodies of water.
A more thorough explanation:
The Bamako Convention is a treaty that was established in 1991 to prevent the importation of hazardous wastes into Africa and to control the movement of such wastes within the continent. The treaty aims to protect human health and the environment from the dangers posed by hazardous wastes by banning their importation, dumping of waste in seas and internal waters, and reducing waste generation.
Only countries that are members of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) can become parties to the Bamako Convention. The treaty prohibits the transfer of hazardous wastes from developed countries to African countries, and also restricts the movement of such wastes among African nations.
For example, if a company in Europe wants to dispose of hazardous waste, it cannot simply send it to an African country that is a party to the Bamako Convention. The company must find a way to dispose of the waste within Europe or in a country that is not a party to the treaty.
The Bamako Convention is an important tool for protecting the environment and human health in Africa. By preventing the importation of hazardous wastes and controlling their movement within the continent, the treaty helps to ensure that African countries are not used as dumping grounds for toxic materials.