Counting the Cost of Green Crime: A Meta-Analysis of Quantitative Studies in Green Criminology

• In Event: Causes and Consequences of Environmental Crime and Injustice: Developments in Green Criminology

Abstract

Ranging from wildlife trafficking to pollution, green crimes pose a significant threat to environmental, human and nonhuman animal well-being. Green Criminology examines these crimes; however, despite growing interest in the field, a meta-analysis of its existing quantitative research has not yet been conducted. This meta-analysis seeks to address this gap in the literature by systematically analyzing quantitative studies in green criminology conducted between 1990 and 2024. This study aims to provide a comprehensive summary of current methodologies, identify trends in green crime types, and evaluate the quality of statistical approaches employed. In addition, this study seeks to examine variations in study outcomes and explore factors influencing this variability in findings, such as economic and political contexts. By consolidating findings from approximately 30 to 50 studies, this meta-analysis will offer important insights for researchers and policymakers. Ultimately, this study aims to advance the empirical foundations of green criminology, summarize current knowledge from quantitative studies in the field, and highlight areas for future research.

Author

• Amanda Connella, University at Albany, SUNY