Norms and Challenges in the Global Movement of E-Waste

The transboundary movement of electronic waste (hereinafter referred to as ‘e-waste’) has emerged as a significant global environmental and regulatory challenge. This paper critically examines international legal frameworks governing e-waste movement, focusing primarily on movements from developed to developing nations. It briefly highlights India as an illustrative example of the broader impacts faced by developing countries. The study analyzes key international regulations, particularly the Basel Convention, along with relevant regional agreements such as the Bamako and Waigani Conventions. The paper highlights how industrialized nations often evade strict domestic regulations by exporting waste under the guise of recycling or repair, shifting environmental burdens disproportionately onto economically weaker nations. Additionally, it addresses limitations in existing international mechanisms in curbing illegal e-waste trafficking and the associated enforcement challenges. By discussing loopholes in current legal frameworks—such as the "repairable loopholes"—the study emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement, enhanced international cooperation, and stringent compliance mechanisms to mitigate environmental injustice.