Digging into waste: an analysis of waste crime in the Italian provinces

Abstract

This article examines the drivers of waste crime using a panel dataset at the provincial level in Italy. The results demonstrate that while waste crime is characterized by some degree of inertia, it lacks significant spatial patterns and does not respond to general modes of deterrence. With respect to income, the human capital effect prevails over the scale effect. An inefficient public sector and inadequate waste management system result in higher waste crime rates. The hauling and storage facilities also provide several opportunities for illegal shipment and disposal, which organized crime groups can especially exploit.