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Written by zack o'brien
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Europe is seeing a rise in organized crime illegally trafficking and disposing of hazardous materials, including e-waste, while making a high profit, according to Europol, the European Union's law enforcement agency. This growing trend is being driven by the high cost of legal disposal and facilitated by economic growth and globalization, according to Europol, which has made it easier to ship illicit items across borders.
Additionally, the agency has found evidence of corruption in the public and private sectors that is contributing to the problem, as well as a muddled distinction between e-waste and second-hand goods that has made enforcement of relevant laws more difficult. Italy, according to Europol, has become a hub for the transportation of e-waste sent to Africa and Asia, while northwest Europe has an active part in sending obsolete electronics to West Africa through its ports. Much of the e-waste is trafficked by small groups ranging from five to 10 people with ethnic links to the destination countries, according to the agency. Article courtesy of Resource Recycling.
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