Investigating the Role of Law Enforcement in Preventing Environmental Crimes Related to Industrial Waste in Specific Regions of Ethiopia

Abstract

Environmental crimes related to industrial waste refer to illegal activities conducted by industrial factories that pose harm to the environment and human health. In many developing nations, law enforcement agencies underestimate the prevalence of such crimes. This study focuses on investigating the role of law enforcement institutions in preventing industrial waste-related environmental crimes within selected regions and city administrations of Ethiopia. Employing a qualitative research approach with an exploratory design, the study used key informant interviews and document analysis as data collection tools. The researchers purposively selected sample regions (Amhara, Oromia, Sidama, and Harari) and two city administrations, engaging participants from law enforcement bodies (regional police, code enforcement (Militia)), environmental protection authorities, and communities. The findings reveal that although there are national and international laws addressing industrial waste-related environmental crimes, their enforcement is limited because of a lack of awareness about the legal framework within the country. Environmental protection authorities play a significant role in enforcing environmental laws and standards compared to other law enforcement agencies. Opportunities for preventing industrial waste-related environmental crimes include existing environmental laws, community participation, stakeholders, and addressing environmental cross-cutting issues. Conversely, challenges to effective prevention include a lack of cooperation among law enforcement bodies, limited awareness about crimes, insufficient resources, and misperceptions by responsible bodies. Based on these findings, the study proposes suggestions to strengthen law enforcement agencies.