Question

Describe how the Stockholm Convention, Code of Conduct, and Rotterdam Convention help regulate international use of pesticides.

Short answer

The Stockholm Convention helps regulate international pesticide use by banning or restricting certain Persistent Organic Pollutants, including some pesticides. The Code of Conduct sets out standards for all entities associated with pesticide management in order to minimize harmful effects. The Rotterdam Convention ensures shared responsibilities in the import of hazardous chemicals, including certain pesticides, by implementing a 'Prior Informed Consent' procedure.

Step-by-step solution

Role of Stockholm Convention

The Stockholm Convention, which came into force in 2004, is a global treaty that aims to protect human health and the environment from Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), which includes some pesticides. It does this by banning or restricting the production and use of certain POPs. Countries that are parties to the convention are obligated to take measures to eliminate or reduce the release of POPs into the environment.

Role of Code of Conduct

The International Code of Conduct on Pesticide Management is a framework setting out standards for all public and private entities engaged in, or associated with, pesticide management. The aim is to minimize the harmful effects of pesticides on human health, non-target organisms, and the environment. It covers aspects such as testing, regulation, packaging, labeling, distribution, storage, and disposal of pesticides.

Role of Rotterdam Convention

The Rotterdam Convention, which came into force in 2004, promotes shared responsibilities in relation to the import of hazardous chemicals. It involves a 'Prior Informed Consent' procedure whereby exporting countries must obtain the consent of the importing country before certain hazardous chemicals and pesticides are shipped. This helps protect countries, particularly developing nations, from the undesired import of harmful substances.