Case studies, specialized skills, and tools for addressing environmental waste crime were the main themes of the training seminars titled “Prevention of Environmental Waste Crime through ‘Smart’ Inspections” (PRevent Of Waste crIme by Intelligence). These seminars (Seminars A & B, held June 17–21) were successfully completed, while Seminar C is scheduled for July 9–12, 2024.
As part of the LIFE PROWhIBIT project (PRevent Of Waste crIme by Intelligence Based InspecTions), the company Lever Development Consultants S.A., a member of the Samaras & Associates Group, is supporting the General Directorate of the Inspectorate and Auditors Body of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN) in organizing the seminars. Project partners also include the Green Fund, the European Union Network for the Implementation and Enforcement of Environmental Law (IMPEL), and it is co-financed by the LIFE Programme.
The seminars focus on targeted, interdisciplinary training for stakeholders involved in the fight against environmental crime. They cover the legal framework regarding Environmental Waste Crime (EWC) and the corresponding national strategy, using real-world case studies. In addition, the role of environmental networks and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in combating EWC is examined. Through presentations and cross-border exercises, participants have the opportunity to develop specialized skills and learn about innovative tools to tackle environmental waste crime.
The seminars are primarily aimed at: Municipal, Regional, and Decentralized Administration employees in solid waste management services, Stakeholders involved in the management of solid waste and the fight against Environmental Waste Crime (EWC), Environmental inspectors, auditors, NGOs, volunteer groups, Customs officers, coast guards, police officers, judges, prosecutors, legal professionals, licensing authorities, and others. Participants may attend either online or in person, at the auditorium of the Ministry of Environment and Energy in Athens, or the auditorium of the Technical Chamber of Greece in Thessaloniki.
The main objective of the LIFE PROWhIBIT project is to contribute to the Circular Economy, particularly the principles and goals of waste management, and to the prevention, detection, and deterrence of environmental waste crime. It strengthens ongoing national efforts to support and enhance the procedures for combating and preventing EWC.
The main expected outcomes of the project include:
- Development and implementation of a National Strategy to combat Environmental Waste Crime in Greece.
- Creation of a comprehensive Digital Platform for managing environmental waste crime cases
- Conducting “smart” waste inspections using advanced inspection methods
- Development of guidelines and recommendations for EU policymakers
