Justice Department Assists with Global Operation Targeting Environmental Crime and Waste Trafficking
From January to December 2025, an unprecedented international law enforcement operation named Custos Viridis targeted organized criminal networks involved in environmental crimes such as waste trafficking, pollution, money laundering, tax evasion, and corruption. Led by Europol and involving 71 countries, including the United States through the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and the EPA, this global crackdown spanned five continents.
The operation aimed to dismantle the criminal enterprises that profit from illegally dumping and trafficking hazardous waste, a practice that poses severe risks to public health and ecosystems worldwide. By disrupting these networks, authorities hope to reduce environmental pollution and financial crimes tied to these illicit activities.
This initiative highlights the growing recognition of environmental crime as a serious transnational threat requiring coordinated international responses. The involvement of multiple agencies signals a commitment to protecting communities and nature from the harms of pollution and organized criminal exploitation. The scale and scope of this effort also serve as a warning to would-be environmental criminals.
Ultimately, Custos Viridis demonstrates how cooperation between nations and law enforcement bodies can enhance global environmental governance and security. The results of this operation are expected to have lasting impacts on reducing toxic waste flows and holding perpetrators accountable across borders.
