In this age of growing environmental awareness and "going green," it has been recognized that precautionary steps must be taken to protect our environment. While some are doing all they can in keeping our environment clean, other are committing crimes that harm the environment. Environmental crime affects all of us because it threatens public health and our natural resources.
Examples of Environmental Crimes
Environmental crimes involve:
- Contaminating water by dumping chemicals into gutters, streams or rivers.
- Releasing pollutants into the air
- Improper disposal, storage or transportation of hazardous wastes, garbage or used tires.
- Hazardous wastes can include: pesticides, chemicals or radioactive materials.