International Diffusion of Hazardous Waste Disposal Policies

• In Event: Policy Innovation, Diffusion, Retrenchment and Feedback: Recent Advancement

Abstract

This paper explores the international diffusion of hazardous waste management legislations similar to the United States' Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) among developed countries. It specifically examines how the relationship between the policy innovator (the United States) and policy adopters (other developed nations) influences the timing of adoption. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research correlates the adoption timelines of RCRA-like legislations in over 20 developed countries with various indicators of their bilateral relations with the U.S., including diplomatic ties, trade dependencies, and shared memberships in international environmental agreements.

The study hypothesizes that closer and more positive relationships with the policy innovator lead to earlier adoption of similar legislations. This hypothesis is tested through quantitative analysis of policy adoption timelines and qualitative case studies of countries representing early, middle, and late adoption stages. These case studies aim to uncover how diplomatic relations, economic interactions, and environmental priorities impact the adoption process.

By analyzing these dynamics, the paper seeks to contribute to the understanding of international policy diffusion, particularly in environmental legislation. It proposes that beyond domestic factors, international relations play a crucial role in how environmental policies are adopted globally. This research is significant for policymakers and international bodies focusing on environmental management and sustainable development, offering insights into fostering effective international cooperation.

Author

• Laura de Castro Quaglia, University of Texas at Austin