The method of elimination of illicit drugs is crucial and it determines the level of environmental impact left by the disposal. In this case, the environment includes the ecosystem around the location of disposal such as water bodies, plants, microorganisms and animals. Discharge of illegal drugs such as cocaine that have been confiscated from drug traffickers often tend to affect the environment negatively.
The manufacture, transfer and disposal of illicit drugs leaves a trail of harmful chemicals behind. The chemicals used in the conversion of coca leaf to grade cocaine and opium latex to heroin are hazardous. Huge quantities of these chemicals are released to the environment whenever law enforcement agencies confiscate and dispose the illegal drugs. Studies show that the chemicals released during the manufacture and disposal process are diluted in the event of heavy rainfall (Pal, Megharaj, Kirkbride & Naidu, 2013). The effects of the discharge to flora and fauna is limited, but the soil components are changed and a loss of microorganisms is observed.
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The deforestation effects of illegal drug plantations are felt across the globe, with the Amazon rainforest being the most affected. The clearance of up to four hectares of forest is said to be needed for one hectare of coca plant (Daughton, 2001). Furthermore, drug enforcement agencies have conducted raids into hidden drug laboratories; burning the facilities to ashes in some instances. The damages incurred during the raid have devastating effects that are felt by the surrounding environment. Amphetamines, morphine, cocaine and MDMA contain potent pharmacological activities with their presence in water having adverse effects on aquatic life forms. Consumption of water contaminated with these drugs has negative effects on human health.
Care and caution in the disposal of drugs is key and a recommendation for the authorities is to adopt proper environmental-friendly disposal techniques. Discharge of drug components into water bodies has detrimental effects to the flora and fauna in contact.
References
Pal, R., Megharaj, M., Kirkbride, K., & Naidu, R. (2013). Illicit drugs and the environment — A review. Science of The Total Environment, 463-464, 1079-1092. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.05.086
Daughton, C. (2001). Pharmaceuticals and personal care products in the environment. Washington, DC: American Chemical Soc.
