Dirty Businesses in Italy: a case-study of illegal trafficking in hazardous waste

This article focuses on trafficking in hazardous and special waste in Italy during the past decade with particular attention to the role played by mafia groups and other legal and illegal actors. A number of examples of illegal management and trafficking of waste are analysed to show the techniques used and the kind of actors involved (traditional mafia-type organisations, corporate entities, legitimate enterprises and businessmen, local authorities and other official actors). It concludes that a number of factors have facilitated and/or enhanced the development and growth of the illegal waste trafficking business (such as the growing demand for clandestine and cheaper services in the sector, the low business ethic of some segments of Italian industry, the delay in implementing proper waste-management policies and legislation, and the low public awareness regarding the threat posed by eco-crimes).