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.
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.
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.
This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of maritime transport as one of the primary modes of cargo transportation in the world. It emphasizes its economic and environmental benefits, while analyzing transportation options that cater to diverse needs, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness for businesses in international trade.
Operation DEMETER V is a global customs enforcement operation targeting the illegal cross-border movement of environmentally sensitive commodities. Initiated by the World Customs Organization, the operation focuses on the illicit trafficking of hazardous waste (particularly plastic waste) and ozone-depleting substances. Through enhanced international cooperation and information exchange, Operation DEMETER V has successfully seized significant quantities of illegal waste and ozone-depleting substances, effectively upholding the enforcement of international environmental conventions.
The implementation of the smart shore power project at Ningbo Port will allow ocean-going vessels to draw power directly from the grid instead of relying on onboard generators. This shift is expected to significantly reduce pollutant emissions during shipping, creating a win-win situation for the terminal, shipping companies, and power suppliers. The project aims to notably decrease emissions of PM2.5, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides, making a significant contribution to environmental protection.
The World Customs Organization coordinated "Operation Short Circuit," involving 43 member customs agencies, to combat counterfeit and substandard electronic goods. The operation resulted in the seizure of a significant amount of dangerous products and the uncovering of criminal networks. The WCO emphasizes the crucial role of customs in protecting consumers, combating organized crime, and safeguarding legitimate trade. The article also analyzes the dangers of counterfeit electronics and provides preventative measures for consumers.
