FAQ

Is there funding for P2 Countries? A Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF) of US$7m has been established for funding the ASP, and a small amount, US$1.1m can be used as seed money for P2 countries. More funding is required, and countries along with implementing agencies are seeking complementary donor support.

How are inventories of obsolete pesticides done? Detailed inventories were done in some countries. In other countries indicative inventories were drawn up by the FAO in the 1990s. An Obsolete Pesticides Management System (OPMS) data base is now available and will allow for more accurate data. However the data belongs to the countries from which it comes and needs to be accessed through the relevant national authorities. In the near future FAO will consolidate information from the OPMS and make aggregated figures available.

How is waste disposal done? The ASP complys with international, regional and local regimes, ensuring the disposal facilities used comply with international operating standards. Only a few facilities in the European Union meet the international requirements and standards. There are many types of non-incineration technologies available for waste treatment, but so far only high temperature incinerators have been able to comply with the requirements and provide the disposal service. A study on waste disposal technology options is currently (2007) being undertaken by WWF. The study is as a result of concerns regarding incineration in cement kilns in some African countries. The study is examining the regulatory context and requirements necessary to operate disposal in accordance to international standards. The study aims to give objective guidance to help countries consider options while taking into account the need to meet international standards

What are the primary social concerns regarding disposal? A variety of concerns have been raised by different groups with regard to disposal. The main concerns expressed are related to the potential for incineration to create other hazardous materials such as dioxins and furans. The probable risk to humans and the environment created by long-distance transportation of hazardous wastes is another concern that is cited. On the other hand, some individuals simply do not want hazardous waste imported from abroad to be processed near their homes. There are also concerns about reliance on any one destruction technology rather than a strategy for reuse and recycling, which is considered to be more sustainable. The ASP needs to balance the uncontested call for disposal of the hazardous waste found in Africa with these concerns.

How can NGOs access funding for ASP related activities? Each country project has an objective of disposal and prevention of obsolete pesticides with detailed activities to achieve these objectives. NGOs can play an important role in activities such as communication and awareness building in which they have special expertise. Where services are to be provided, NGOs can bid to undertake these activities. All bids must comply with the World Bank rules for procurement of services that cover transparency, competition and quality. There is a seat for an NGO representative on the national steering committee in each country. Local NGOs need to ensure they are well organized, and present their views on implementation activities to the steering committee through the NGO focal point. PAN is working to build NGO capacity to participate in country activities.

What is the CLI safeguarding project? The CLI safeguarding project is a collaborative project aimed at countries that are not part of the first project of the ASP (ASP P-1) where there are currently no ASP activities. The project will involve safeguarding of obsolete stockpiles that are identified as needing urgent action in these countries. It will therefore provide an opportunity to address highly hazardous situations as soon as possible and thereby avoid risks associated with delayed intervention.

What is the relative importance of prevention and disposal activities within the ASP? Prevention of build up of obsolete pesticides is as important as disposal of obsolete pesticide stocks in the ASP. Prevention is integral to the programme and every country is obliged to implement measures that will prevent development of future stockpiles.

Who is ASPIC? The ASP Implementing Committee (ASPIC) is made up of the agencies and partners that have a direct role and legal responsibility for implementation: the World Bank, FAO, CropLife International, WWF and Pesticides Action Network (PAN). The purpose of ASPIC is to steer the ASP programme to achieve its stated objectives. The ASPIC members have legal responsibility to donors for implementation, and are actively implementing ASP with countries. The ASPIC meets face-to-face twice a year and periodically (generally monthly) by telephone conference.

What is the objective and role of the Stakeholder Forum? The objective of the Stakeholder Forum is to provide guidance to ASPIC for implementation of the ASP. The Forum is made up of all those with an interest in ensuring the implementation and activities of the ASP, that includes countries, UN and technical agencies, donors, industry and NGOs. The role for the Forum is to: review progress made; provide feedback; give advice on fundraising; review ASPIC delivery and consider critical issues for ASP implementation.