Illegala gränsöverskridande avfallstransporter. Vad är problemet med problemet?

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to research the current perspectives, problems and issues surrounding the work of controlling and regulating the illegal trade of waste between Sweden and countries outside of the EU. The focus of this study was hence to bring some light onto this problematic market and specifically the regulation and control of the illegality of it all. To do so the enquiry led to a study into the perspectives, problems and issue experienced by civil servants both within and outside of governmental agencies. Previous research has focused on similar areas such as specific problem areas within the governmental control and regulation; the underlying motivational aspects of the criminals; as well as consequences and social injustice that seems to be incorporated within this area of study. The present study brings light on similar issues from a different angle. With the help of criminological and organisational theories an analysis is performed on the perceived definitions, problem areas and possible solutions of civil servants operating within and outside of the Swedish government. To achieve the aim and purpose of this study a qualitative method was chosen. The empirical data was collected from interviews with 11 civil servants working with the area of interest in different ways. Throughout the process the empirical data led the way, hence resulting in an approach that has great similarities with the inductive way of researching. The main results shows that several different areas are problematic for the regulation and control of the illegal market of exporting waste. These include the complicated law and regulatory frameworks; the minimal risk of getting caught; and a limitation of resources and lack of priority. More specifically the issue surrounding the constantly floating regulation object that waste entails; the lack of knowledge and uncertainty in relation to this area and the lack of clear guidelines were considered to be the most damaging aspects for the work with regulating and controlling the illegal transboundary movements of waste.