Experts on persistent organic pollutants have gathered to work on guidance on best available techniques (BAT) and best environmental practices (BEP) in relation to the Stockholm Convention.

The third session of the Stockholm Convention Expert Group on BAT-BEP met from 11-16 October 2004 in Tokyo. At the meeting, experts discussed the development of guidelines on BAT and provisional guidance on BEP relevant to the provisions of the Stockholm Convention. Topics addressed included consideration of alternatives in the application of BAT, general guidance and guidelines in the application of BAT and BEP, and guidance by source category. The Expert Group agreed to forward draft guidelines to the first Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention (COP-1), to be held 2-6 May 2005 in Punta del Este, Uruguay, for consideration and possible adoption. More information.