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Special Guest Lecture by Rolph Payet held at Green University
On March 3, The Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University) had the distinct honor of hosting a special lecture delivered by Rolph Payet, Executive Secretary of the Basel Convention, Rotterdam Convention, and Stockholm Convention — collectively known as the BRS Conventions.
The session brought together Bachelor’s and Master’s degree students and faculty members for an in-depth discussion on global environmental governance and international chemical and waste management frameworks.
The event was opened by Dr. Bakhtiyor Pulatov, Rector of Green University, who warmly welcomed Mr. Payet and expressed sincere appreciation for including the University in his official visit. In his remarks, the Rector emphasized that Mr. Payet’s presence reflects the growing role of academic institutions in advancing sustainable development and strengthening global environmental governance.
The Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions represent one of the most significant international legal frameworks addressing hazardous chemicals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and hazardous wastes. These global agreements play a critical role in protecting human health and the environment, directly impacting ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide, including in the Central Asian region.
During the lecture, Mr. Payet shared valuable insights into recent developments and emerging challenges under the Conventions. He highlighted the work of key scientific bodies, including the POPs Review Committee and the Chemical Review Committee, as well as the importance of the Global Monitoring Plan for persistent organic pollutants. Particular attention was given to the vital link between science-based decision-making and effective multilateral environmental action.
Students gained a deeper understanding of:
• Global environmental governance mechanisms
• International environmental law
• Sustainable management of chemicals and hazardous waste
• Global efforts to combat pollution and safeguard human health
The lecture was followed by an engaging question-and-answer session, during which students had the opportunity to ask Mr. Payet about practical implementation challenges, regional cooperation, and career pathways in international environmental diplomacy.
After the lecture, Rector Dr. Bakhtiyor Pulatov held a bilateral meeting with Mr. Payet to discuss potential collaboration between Green University and the BRS Conventions Secretariat, further strengthening academic partnerships and advancing regional initiatives in environmental governance.