GAHP and Government of Uruguay Host Side Event on Nanomaterials in Batteries at OEWG-14

The Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP), in collaboration with the Government of Uruguay, is proud to announce a side event at the 14th meeting of the Open-ended Working Group (OEWG-14) of the Basel Convention, titled "Nanomaterials & Nanometals in Used Batteries." This event will take place on June 25th, 2024, from 18:15 to 19:45 CEST in Room C, CICG, Rue de Varembé 17, Geneva, Switzerland.

The recycling and disposal of used batteries containing nanomaterials and nanometals is an issue of growing concern due to their impact on health and the environment when not managed properly. This side event will address the problem and associated risks by presenting and analyzing the current technical, regulatory and scientific knowledge on the impacts on health and the environment to contribute as key elements for the informed decision-making process.

Key objectives of the event include: 

• Addressing Emerging Issues: Nano materials and nano metals in used batteries represent emerging environmental challenges that need attention and discussion at international forums to help the informed decision-making process, particularly in LMICs.

• Informing Policy Discussions: The side event provides a platform to inform policymakers, delegates, and stakeholders about the latest technology, regulatory framework and potential impacts on health and the environment. This information can contribute to improving the decision-making process during the convention and at the country level.

• Sharing Best Practices: The event offers an opportunity to share best practices. This sharing of knowledge can help identify effective strategies and approaches for addressing related environmental and health concerns. 

• Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including government officials, scientists, industry representatives, and civil society organizations, fosters collaboration and dialogue on addressing the challenges posed by nanomaterials and nano metals in used batteries. This engagement can lead to greater awareness, cooperation, and action on these issues.

This event promises to be a crucial platform for addressing the challenges and shaping the future of environmental and health policies regarding nanomaterials in used batteries and to give decision-making tools to identify and help select the BAT/BEP.

Participants are welcome to join in person if registered for OEWG-14 or online by registering through the provided QR code in the above poster or this link by June 23rd, 2024.