Spain has emerged as a key illegal dumping ground for urban and industrial waste from southern Europe. Organized crime networks, often working with local actors, transport tons of waste into the country daily.
This illicit trade primarily involves waste from France and Italy but increasingly includes materials from Belgium and Germany.
Hazardous waste in disguise
Much of this waste, including hazardous materials, enters Spain under the guise of legal shipments, making detection challenging. Commander Carlos Astráin of the Central Operational Environmental Unit (UCOMA) of SEPRONA (Nature Protection Service of the Guardia Civil) highlighted the severity of the issue in an interview with EFEverde.
European waste regulations: A loophole for crime
Under the Basel Convention, adopted in the 1980s, European regulations require each country to manage its waste to minimise environmental and health risks. However, compliance comes at a significant cost. Many countries circumvent these costs by exporting waste to destinations with lower processing fees or laxer regulations.
Historical context: Africa and Asia
Historically, much of Europe’s waste, including electrical appliances, vehicles, and plastics, was exported to Africa and Asia. Today, Spain has become a preferred destination due to its lower waste management costs. For instance, processing one tonne of municipal waste costs around €250 in France but only €50 in Spain.
Organised crime and illegal profits
Organised criminal networks from France and Italy dominate the illegal waste trade, attracted by high profits and low risks. These operations have expanded in recent years to include countries like Belgium and Germany.
Fraudulent documentation
A significant challenge is the use of falsified documents that misrepresent waste as valuable materials or legal shipments. Many companies involved in these activities operate both legal and illegal businesses, further complicating detection.
Key regions affected in Spain
The most affected regions are Catalonia, Aragón, and the Valencian Community, where numerous waste management facilities operate. Illegal dumping is also widespread in the Basque Country.
Types of waste
Municipal waste constitutes the bulk of these shipments, but industrial waste—such as hazardous substances, oils, solvents, and construction residues—is on the rise. These materials often end up in regular landfills or are buried illegally, causing soil and water pollution.
Solutions to combat illegal waste
Commander Astráin has proposed several measures to address the issue:
- European coordination: A unified information system across Europe to standardise controls and improve information sharing.
- National cooperation: Enhanced coordination among Spain’s autonomous communities to prevent fraud.
- Stricter penalties: Increased prison sentences and higher fines to deter organised crime.
Spain’s growing environmental challenge
The illegal dumping of urban and industrial waste presents a growing threat to Spain’s environment and public health. Without coordinated action at national and European levels, this lucrative but damaging trade is likely to expand, exacerbating the country’s waste management challenges.