An international agreement negotiated to restrict movements of hazardous waste from more-developed to less-developed countries is called what?

• A. Rotterdam Convention
• B. Kyoto Protocol
• C. Basel Convention
• D. Montreal Protocol

Answer: (C)

This question tests knowledge of international agreements that govern cross-border movements of hazardous materials. The Basel Convention was created specifically to control hazardous waste shipments between countries and to ensure their environmentally sound management. It aims to prevent developed countries from simply exporting hazardous waste to less-developed regions and to minimize and properly dispose of wastes in a way that protects people and ecosystems.

The other options refer to different global treaties: the Rotterdam Convention deals with prior informed consent for hazardous chemicals and pesticides in international trade, not waste movements; the Kyoto Protocol focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and the Montreal Protocol targets the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances. Because the scenario described—restricting movements of hazardous waste from more-developed to less-developed countries—aligns with the Basel Convention, that is the correct agreement.