Europe-wide Sewage analysis to Monitor Emerging drug problems

ended

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is now an established approach that is used to monitor the consumption of a selection of illicit drugs. However, WBE can also become a valuable source of information about new drug-related threats such as consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPS), licit and illicit opioids, as well as new trends in drug use (e.g., crack cocaine and cannabis). The goal of EuSeME is to further develop WBE as an early warning system to monitor emerging drug problems across Europe. First, qualitative and quantitative information about the consumption of NPS and opioids across Europe will be obtained through the development of analytical methods and retrospective analysis of wastewater and urine samples. Second, a thorough literature review will be carried out to identify additional relevant biomarkers of crack cocaine use. Analytical methods will be developed and integrated with existing ones to include these new biomarkers and monitor consumption of crack cocaine through WBE. Third, a thorough investigation of the sorption of cannabis biomarkers on suspended matter present in wastewater will be carried out. Outcomes will be used to establish a detailed protocol, providing a robust and harmonised approach to monitor consumption of cannabis through WBE. Finally, two broad sampling campaigns aiming at covering all of Europe will be carried out, focussing on the newly identified biomarkers and on conventional drugs. These campaigns will provide unique insights about emerging threats linked to the use of NPS, opioids, crack cocaine and cannabis, as well as an updated view about the situation of consumption of conventional illicit drugs in Europe. By implementing a practical application of drug-related research, EuSeME seeks to provide support to the activities of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), national governments and stakeholders, law enforcement, as well as national focal points.