Implementation of the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Africa – progress, challenges, and recommendations after 20 years†

The Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants is an effective global instrument for the eradication of hazardous chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment. The Convention has so far been successful in the mitigation of worldwide POPs over 20 years of its entering into force. However, concerns still arise on POP-related waste management and elevating trend of POPs in Africa. Recent documents indeed indicated significant concentrations of POPs, particularly polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in a top global range or higher with a potential for this elevating trend to continue. The high concentrations and increasing trends are likely similar for the newly listed POPs, but current data are insufficient to examine this hypothesis. Several concerted efforts have been made by the Stockholm Convention Secretariat and relevant stakeholders to support POP eradication programmes in Africa but projections for the decline of many POPs are yet to be visible due to challenges of inadequate policy and regulatory frameworks, capacity to self-manage relevant socio-economic data and others as fully discussed in this review. Africa currently requires full range financial and technical support. We, however, highlight that for effective mitigation efforts, this support should be channelled into the development of capacity and competency to enable African-led programs for POP monitoring, waste disposal, and public awareness, rather than reliance on external groups. Harmonising economical, industrial development, scientific and political interests will be crucial to future self-sustainability of mitigation goals of the Stockholm Convention on POPs in Africa.