Formally called : Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade
It is a multilateral Treaty
It is a UN Treaty
Opened for signature in 1998
Became effective in 2004
Signatories : 72
Parties : 155
Aims to promote shared responsibilities in relation to importation of hazardous chemicals.
What it does?
The convention promotes open exchange of information between importers-exporters of hazardous chemicals.
Calls on exporters of hazardous chemicals to use proper labelling, include directions on safe handling, and inform purchasers of any known restrictions or bans.
Signatory nations can decide whether to allow or ban the importation of chemicals listed in the treaty
Exporting countries are obliged to make sure that producers within their jurisdiction comply.
Convention has a list of substances which can change and evolve over time