Mountains of plastic waste crossing oceans and inundating environmentally vulnerable nations present both an ecological crisis and a critical test for international environmental governance systems. The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched initiatives to strengthen Asia-Pacific customs agencies' capacity to regulate plastic waste shipments while combating illegal trafficking.
Virtual Assessment Missions Yield Strategic Insights
The WCO recently completed two virtual diagnostic missions—for Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs (January 11-15, 2021) and the Philippines Bureau of Customs (January 18-22, 2021). These missions form part of the WCO Asia-Pacific Border Management of Waste Project, designed to enhance regional capabilities for:
- Managing lawful plastic waste imports
- Preventing illegal plastic waste trafficking
- Implementing the Basel Convention's plastic waste amendments effective January 1, 2021
Comprehensive Evaluation Framework
WCO experts from the Compliance and Facilitation Directorate's Enforcement and Facilitation Division conducted thorough assessments across six key areas:
- Strategic planning: Evaluating national waste management policies and resource allocation
- Legal frameworks: Reviewing compliance with international standards including the Basel Convention
- Operational procedures: Analyzing customs clearance processes for efficiency and compliance
- Enforcement mechanisms: Assessing capabilities for detecting and intercepting illegal shipments
- Support systems: Examining technical, financial, and training resources
- Personnel competency: Evaluating staff knowledge and identifying training needs
Implementation Plans and Regional Collaboration
Based on diagnostic findings, the WCO will develop customized action plans for both nations. A regional workshop scheduled for 2021 will address:
- Developing coordinated regional strategies
- Establishing standardized training programs
- Enhancing cross-border enforcement cooperation
The Basel Convention Amendments: A Turning Point
The 2019 amendments to the Basel Convention represent a significant advancement in global plastic waste governance. Key provisions include:
- Expanded controls covering mixed and contaminated plastic waste
- Mandatory prior informed consent requirements for shipments
- Enhanced transparency measures for international waste trade
Customs Agencies: Frontline Defenders
Border control authorities play a pivotal role through:
- Advanced risk assessment techniques
- Enhanced inspection protocols
- Coordinated international enforcement actions
- Specialized personnel training programs
The WCO initiative aims to equip Asia-Pacific customs agencies with the tools needed to balance legitimate trade facilitation with rigorous environmental protection, contributing to global sustainability efforts.