Current Status and Measures of Hazardous Waste Disposal in the North Sea - 2020s

Current Status and Measures of Hazardous Waste Disposal in the North Sea - 2020s

In 1995, the North Sea Conservation Conference reached an agreement to completely ban the disposal of hazardous waste into the North Sea by 2020. Based on this agreement, North Sea coastal countries have been working to strengthen waste management and environmental protection.

Current Status and Progress

In the 2020s, the disposal of hazardous waste into the North Sea has significantly decreased. In particular, the disposal of heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and highly toxic substances such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and dioxins has nearly reached zero. This progress is a result of each country advancing waste treatment facilities and recycling technologies.

Specific Initiatives

- Germany: Major chemical companies like Bayer and BASF have made substantial investments in waste recycling and safe treatment, reducing environmental burdens.
- France: The government has invested 500 million euros (about 650 billion yen) to modernize waste treatment facilities, promoting proper waste management.
- Norway: The government allocates 10 million euros annually (about 1.3 billion yen) for research and development of waste treatment technology, aiming for zero marine disposal.

Challenges and Future Prospects

On the other hand, the UK did not sign the 1995 agreement, and some waste disposal continued into the early 2020s. However, under international pressure and rising environmental awareness, the UK has started shifting its policies towards a complete halt of waste disposal.

Overall, water quality in the North Sea is improving, and the ecosystem is reportedly recovering. Continued cooperation among nations and responsible actions from companies are expected to further advance sustainable environmental protection efforts.