A commentary published for the Brookings Institution argues that environmental crimes, such as land grabbing, illegal logging, and wildlife trafficking, are significant impediments to sustainable development and climate action. These activities damage ecosystems and weaken governing institutions, while also draining revenue from legitimate businesses and public finances.
The authors contend that enforcement alone is insufficient to address these issues, which are deeply embedded within trade, finance, and local political economies. They propose tracking profits throughout the entire supply chain as a more effective strategy for combating environmental crime.
The global criminal economy related to environmental offenses is substantial, with estimates of annual proceeds ranging from $110 billion to $281 billion, and potentially much higher, possibly in the trillions. The commentary highlights that these crimes are often treated solely as environmental offenses, underestimating their broader economic and systemic impact.
Source: Mongabay