Poorly managed waste can contaminate water resources and soil, cause air pollution (particularly through open burning, which generates emissions of dioxins, furans, POPs and black carbon), encourage the proliferation of disease vectors, and expose populations to persistent toxic substances.
Improving waste management is a key lever for reducing these risks. It relies in particular on source reduction and eco-design to limit hazardous substances, the establishment of functional collection systems, the safe management of hazardous and medical waste, the restriction of high-risk practices (open burning and open dumping), and the protection of workers and exposed populations.
Thus, the Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of waste to protect the environment and health (Article 2(8) of the Basel Convention) is a key driver for adopting the One Health approach, which recognises the interdependence between human health, animal health and the health of ecosystems. Indeed, it enables:
- Improved public health,
- The protection of ecosystems, and
- Reducing pressures on biodiversity.
The objectives of the FSWP
In this context, the FSWP is committed to promoting an integrated approach to waste management, aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (in particular SDG 3) and fully aligned with the One Health principles:
- Integrating global health issues (human, animal and environmental) into waste management policies and strategies.
- Strengthen waste management systems to reduce health and environmental risks, particularly in the most vulnerable contexts.
- Promote the safe management of hazardous and medical waste, in line with international recommendations.
- Reduce exposure to pollution and toxic substances by promoting prevention and the circular economy.
- Encourage cross-cutting approaches and cooperation between sectors (health, environment, local authorities, research).
- Contribute to international commitments, particularly in the areas of health, biodiversity and sustainable development.
A publication highlighting the links between waste management and human health
The FSWP invites you to read the World Health Organisation (WHO) publication released in December 2025. This document summarises current knowledge on the links between solid waste, pollution and human health, highlighting the dangers, routes of exposure, the most vulnerable populations and the need to strengthen prevention, ESM of waste and the involvement of the health sector in public policy.
