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Dirty Businesses in Italy: A Case-Study of Illegal Trafficking in Hazardous Waste

NCJ Number
212557
Journal
Global Crime Volume: 6 Issue: 3&4 Dated: August-November 2004 Pages: 285-304
Author(s)
Monica Massari; Paola Monzini
Date Published
August 2004
Length
20 pages
Annotation
By paying particular attention to the role played by mafia groups and other legal and illegal actors, this article focuses on trafficking in hazardous and special waste in Italy during the past decade.
Abstract
Estimates in 1980 showed almost 80 percent of the hazardous waste trade occurring between developed countries. By the early 1980s, the increase in the amount of waste produced in these countries, along with the adoption of stricter legislation on its management made it increasingly difficult and costly to dispose of it in a safe, legal, and environmentally sound way. The result was a significant growth of the international transfer of these materials. The results clearly indicate that the pressure of supply and demand play a crucial role and shape profit-making opportunities, whether legal or illegal. Those dealing in illegal waste management sell illegal services to mostly legal enterprises and meet a growing demand for clandestine services that avoid controls and their associated costs. This article was developed from the outcomes of a broader study implemented in 2003 both in Italy and Spain in the framework of the Falcone Program. The aim is to provide policymakers tools and resources for the development of informed policies to prevent and reduce this growing criminal market. 52 Notes