What does prior informed consent govern?

Prior informed consent is a principle especially relevant in contexts where hazardous substances are involved, particularly in international trade. Specifically, it governs the trade of certain hazardous chemicals that are banned or severely restricted, ensuring that countries importing these chemicals have full awareness and understanding of the risks associated with them. This requirement helps protect human health and the environment by preventing the unintentional use of substances that could cause harm.

This framework is often linked to international agreements, such as the Rotterdam Convention, which establishes procedures for the international trade of hazardous chemicals. Under this convention, countries must provide prior informed consent before allowing imports of these substances. This approach reinforces the idea that nations should not only be aware of the risks involved but also give explicit consent before such trade occurs.

The other options, while they address important aspects of environmental safety and management, do not typically fall under the domain of prior informed consent. Issues such as the trade of safe hazardous chemicals, disposal of non-hazardous waste, and laboratory safety regulations operate under different regulatory frameworks and guidelines that do not require prior informed consent in the same way.