Modern logistics not only drives economic growth but also faces significant challenges in environmental protection. Non-green factors in transportation, storage, processing, and packaging pollute the environment and incur high costs to society. Therefore, companies should implement green logistics concepts, considering both economic and environmental benefits to address future challenges in sustainable development.
The World Customs Organization held a workshop in the Asia-Pacific region focusing on the enforcement of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of member customs agencies to combat the illicit trade of environmentally sensitive goods. Topics covered included an overview of MEAs, global trade trends, risk management, document verification, and cargo inspection. The event fostered regional cooperation and the sharing of best practices, laying a foundation for addressing global environmental challenges. It emphasized the critical role of customs in protecting the environment.
Alibaba International will discontinue its EPR collection service for certain products in France by 2025, presenting new compliance challenges for merchants. Emphasizing environmental protection can enhance sustainable development for businesses. Merchants are advised to prepare in advance to ensure compliance in their operations.
The World Customs Organization emphasizes the crucial role of customs in environmental protection, urging the global customs community to strengthen cooperation in combating illegal environmental trade and protecting natural heritage. By enhancing border control, risk assessment, international collaboration, and technological application, customs administrations can effectively address environmental crime and contribute to sustainable development. The focus is on proactive measures to prevent illicit trafficking of endangered species, hazardous waste, and other environmentally harmful goods across borders, ensuring a safer and more sustainable planet for future generations.
A WCO workshop in the EAC/SADC region helped customs administrations address environmental risks, combat illicit trade, protect the environment, and facilitate trade. The workshop aimed to strengthen customs' capacity to identify and manage environmental risks associated with cross-border movements. Businesses are encouraged to improve their compliance levels to mitigate potential risks related to environmental regulations and international trade practices. This proactive approach ensures both adherence to legal requirements and contribution to a more sustainable global trade environment.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Train-the-Trainer workshop in Kenya, focusing on the Basel and Montreal Conventions. Through capacity building, the WCO aims to assist national customs administrations in improving compliance, combating illegal trade, and protecting the environment. The Sida-WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programme provides technical assistance to relevant customs agencies to address trade-related environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This initiative empowers customs officers to effectively enforce environmental regulations and contribute to global environmental protection efforts.
The 2009 International Customs Day focused on "Customs and the Environment," highlighting the crucial role of customs in combating environmental crime and protecting natural heritage. This paper outlines the challenges faced by customs, introduces the World Customs Organization's responses, and envisions the future development direction of customs in global environmental governance. It calls for strengthened international cooperation to build intelligent and collaborative Green Customs.
This handbook provides customs officers with a practical guide to key Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) such as the Basel Convention and CITES. It aims to assist frontline personnel in quickly identifying violations and taking appropriate action. The handbook emphasizes its use in conjunction with the 'Green Customs Initiative MEA Guide'. It helps customs officials understand their role in enforcing environmental regulations and preventing illegal trade in environmentally sensitive goods, thereby contributing to global environmental protection and sustainable development.
Liège Airport faces challenges due to a new environmental operating permit aimed at reducing noise pollution. The airport argues the permit will severely impact its cargo capacity. This conflict between the airport's operations and local residents' concerns reflects the broader EU challenge of balancing environmental protection with economic development. Potential solutions include technological innovation, operational optimization, and noise mitigation strategies to address the concerns and allow the airport to maintain its crucial air cargo role. These solutions are crucial for the airport's future.
China-Europe maritime transport is a crucial artery of global trade, supporting significant trade volumes and surpluses between the two regions. It's also a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative, holding geopolitical significance. However, maritime transport poses environmental challenges, including carbon emissions and marine pollution. Shipping costs are influenced by various factors, ranging approximately from $2000 to $4000 per cubic meter. Collaborative efforts between China and Europe are necessary to achieve sustainable development in maritime transport.
