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Improper destruction of seized illicit drugs in Asian countries causes environmental and forensic harm and requires a sustainable disposal framework

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Drug destruction is a key part of a holistic approach to drug control management-not only within Asian countries but worldwide-due to the vast volumes of illicit drugs confiscated every year. Despite the fact that the emphasis on drug control has been on seizures, the techniques for destroying seized drugs are still generally archaic, scientifically deficient and environmentally damaging. This is particularly true in many Asian countries that seize vast amounts of illegal substances each year. A comprehensive review of drug destruction methods and environmental contamination potential and public health impact within various Asian locations are discussed here. Problems with current destruction practices from a chemical and environmental viewpoint are outlined. The topic of environmentally sustainable drug destruction techniques that do not compromise the integrity of forensic evidence is certainly one that must be addressed.

Source: Discover Hazards

DOI: 10.1007/s44475-026-00078-5

Authors: Nima Alizadeh Raef, Mohsen Ghalari

Institution: Islamic Azad University Central Tehran Branch

Language: English

Topic: Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis

Subfield: Toxicology

Field: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Good health and well-being, Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7225323181