Dirty Land, Unadjudicated Shadows - Environmental Crime in Contemporary Japan (2020-2024)

Dirty Land, Unadjudicated Shadows - Environmental Crime in Contemporary Japan (2020-2024)

Environmental crimes in Japan include a wide range of problems such as illegal dumping of industrial waste and illegal trade in wild animals and plants. The Metropolitan Police Department is stepping up its crackdown on environmental crimes that lead to the deterioration of the global environment, ecosystems, and living conditions.

Illegal Dumping of Industrial Waste and Increase in Pollution Complaints
According to data from the Ministry of the Environment, there were 6649 arrests for environmental crimes in 2020, up from 6189 the previous year. The number of complaints related to illegal dumping of industrial waste was particularly high, with 9018 of 20867 pollution complaints in FY2022 being related to waste dumping. Illegal dumping in mountainous areas and along coastlines continues unabated, and some municipalities are installing surveillance cameras.

Illegal Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora
According to the "Crime Proceeds Transfer Risk Assessment Report" published in December 2021, there have been no cases of illegal trade of wild animals and plants arrested as money laundering in Japan. However, illegal trade in violation of the Washington Convention is reportedly taking place clandestinely, with some rare birds and rare reptiles being traded at high prices. There is an urgent need to crack down on environmental crimes and strengthen legislation.

Measures against Environmental Crimes
The Metropolitan Police Department has strengthened its crackdown on environmental crimes, with particular emphasis on illegal dumping, improper disposal, and illegal incineration of industrial waste. The Ministry of the Environment is also strengthening its monitoring system and conducting patrols in cooperation with local governments. Stricter penalties and a system for publicizing violating businesses are also being considered.

Related Information
- Increase in environmental crimes: The number of environmental crimes arrested in 2020 increased to 6649 cases (from 6189 in the previous year).
- Illegal dumping of industrial waste: 9018 out of 20867 pollution complaints in FY2022 were related to waste.
- Illegal trade of wildlife and plants: Although there have been no cases of money laundering arrests, legislation is required.
- Response by the Metropolitan Police Department and the Ministry of the Environment: Strengthen surveillance systems, conduct patrols in cooperation with local governments, and strengthen measures against illegal dumping of industrial waste.

Environmental crimes in Japan are on the rise, requiring continuous monitoring and strengthening of law enforcement by relevant agencies. Pollution left unchecked and the shadows of criminal organizations that take advantage of this pollution are quietly undermining society.