Europol leads international operation against environmental crime and waste trafficking
Europol spearheaded an extensive international crackdown on organized crime networks engaged in waste trafficking and environmental pollution. The operation, named Custos Viridis, ran throughout 2025 across five continents, involving law enforcement agencies from 71 countries. This collective effort targeted illegal activities that harm ecosystems and public health, such as toxic waste dumping and unregulated disposal.
The scale of participation underscores the global nature of waste crime and the need for coordinated action. Illicit waste trafficking often fuels corruption and damages vulnerable communities, making this operation critical for environmental and social stability. Europol’s leadership facilitated information sharing, joint investigations, and disruption of criminal supply chains.
By dismantling these networks, authorities aim to reduce pollution and protect natural resources, supporting international environmental agreements. The operation also sends a strong warning to criminals exploiting weak regulatory frameworks. Sustained multinational cooperation, as demonstrated in Custos Viridis, is essential to tackle the growing threat of environmental crime worldwide.
Communities affected by illegal waste dumping, including those in developing countries, stand to benefit from safer environments and reduced exposure to hazardous pollutants. The operation marks a significant step toward cleaner, more accountable waste management on a global scale.
