The United States and the other industrialized nations are using the Third World as a dumping ground for hazardous chemicals and waste. Producers of these highly dangerous materials want to focus international debate on stronger export regulation of hazardous substances.
PIC requires written consent from the importing country prior to shipment of hazardous substances.
The distinction between PIC and previous notification schemes allows for the continued sloppy export of toxic materials. Today the EPA is responsible for monitoring the export of hazardous chemicals. The EPA is required to notify all governments and relevant international organizations every time it makes a significant regulatory decision on a chemical. In addition, before shipment of prohibited chemicals, importers must acknowledge that they are aware of the U.S. domestic ban. The EPA is also required to inform the importing country's government, through the State Department, of the sale of a dangerous substance.