UNODC-WCO Global Container Control Programme Online Training enhances Customs Officers’ knowledge on Hazardous Waste

How to fight the illegal turnover of hazardous waste shipped from other countries to Kyrgyzstan at a border, was discussed at UNODC-WCO Сontainer Сontrol Programme online training conducted by international expert of the organization for the state customs service and Port Control Unites in Kyrgyzstan.

“Hazardous waste is all residues, wastes and garbage that remain from production, economy, human activities in everyday life and pose a threat to the environment. Hazardous waste must be disposed of in accordance with strictly regulated sanitary rules, norms and lists; developed countries have long used a system of severe penalties for violating them”, says Mr. Svetlan Savov, UNODC-CCP Program consultant. “It is divided into four classes of hazard to nature: extremely dangerous - mercury thermometers, transformers, air conditioners, etc. Highly hazardous wastes include car tires and lithium batteries. Moderately dangerous - copper wires, engine oil, acetone and low-hazard - sawdust, wooden furniture, pieces of natural glass, construction waste".

During a two-day training, participants gained knowledge about transboundary illegal trade in hazardous waste and its environmental and social impacts; reviewed international and regional legal perspectives; and learned on how to identify hazardous waste trafficking.

 

One of the main UN Protocols that regulates relations between countries is the Basel Protocol on Liability and Compensation for Damage Caused by the Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal is one of the main UN Protocols which regulates relations between countries in this matter.

Kyrgyzstan adopted the Basel Protocol on August 16, 2002 and pledged to implement it. Also, in 2015, the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic approved the Resolution on the Procedure for the Management of Hazardous Wastes on the Territory of the Kyrgyz Republic. It is intended for legal entities and individuals whose activities are related to the processes of handling hazardous waste and the operation of facilities for the placement and disposal of this waste.

UNODC--WCO Global Container Control Programme aims to build capacity in countries seeking to improve risk management, supply chain security and trade facilitation in seaports, land-borders and airports to prevent the cross-border movement of illicit goods.

The training is a part of the CCP Regional Segment for Central Asia is funded by the Government of Japan and the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and the Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Programme.

Article in Russian language

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For more information, please contact Vasilina Brazhko (Ms.)

UNODC Communication and PR Specialist in Central Asia

+996775987817 WhatsApp or Telegram

or by e-mail: vasilina.brazhko[at]un.org