Hazardous wastes pose serious risks to the environment and human health if not safely managed. Such waste can pollute the air, water, soil and wildlife. Mercury, lead and other toxins found in some hazardous wastes can persist in the environment for years, and health impacts can include cancer, miscarriages and birth defects, among others. These effects can and do harm communities for generations.
Dumping on land, at sea or in developing countries relocates wastes beyond the ability of one country to regulate. Not all countries can safely manage these wastes or effectively regulate companies’ behaviour. Yet, they are often the destination for hazardous waste.
This briefing paper addresses post-consumer waste, especially e-waste, reopening old questions on how to manage the global waste trade. Proactive management that scans the horizon for new hazardous waste streams has often been missing and is necessary to protect human health and the environment.