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Drug residues in northern Germany's wastewater: alarming figures!
Neubrandenburg has high drug residues in wastewater. Despite falling values, consumer behavior remains worrying.
Drug residues in northern Germany's wastewater: alarming figures!
The drug problem in northern Germany is more relevant than ever. In the summer of 2025, the NDR, in collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden, had wastewater samples from six northern German cities examined for residues of illegal substances. This study, which makes a significant contribution to clarifying consumer behavior through a comprehensive analysis of drug residues in wastewater, shows alarming results.
The investigation affected two cities in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, two in Schleswig-Holstein and two in Lower Saxony. What is particularly interesting is that similar tests have already been carried out in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania; This time, however, cities outside this federal state were also taken into account. The consumption pattern has not only attracted the attention of local authorities, but also falls under regular checks by the EU Drug Agency, which annually surveys 128 cities in Europe.
Drug consumption in Neubrandenburg
A noticeable consumption of speed was found in Neubrandenburg, even if the values have decreased compared to previous years. The city ranks a worrying 11th in Europe according to residue levels. However, Mayor Nico Klose emphasizes that he cannot generally speak of a drug problem. Nevertheless, Björn Helm from TU Dresden warns that the high values, despite the decline, are cause for concern.
The tragedy of 13-year-old Finja, who died of an MDMA overdose in 2023, casts dark shadows on the preliminary results. Chief physician Sven Armbrust from a local clinic reports that drug poisoning among young people is not uncommon. Young people in Neubrandenburg report the ease with which they have access to illegal drugs, which are also affordable.
Focus on cocaine and crystal meth
In Lower Saxony, Wilhelmshaven was particularly noticeable, where high cocaine residues were measured. In contrast, crystal meth residues were only detected in small quantities in the cities examined, with the exception of Seesen, where the levels were higher. In Schleswig-Holstein, high cocaine residues were also found in Neumünster and Itzehoe, but this does not lead the cities to introduce regular drug screenings.
But such trends cannot only be observed in northern Germany. A study of wastewater analysis in 75 European cities shows a general increase in the use of drugs such as cocaine and amphetamine compared to previous years. According to this analysis, MDMA is showing a decline regionally, which may be related to nightclub closures during the pandemic.
With these findings, it is clear that the issue of drug use remains on the political agenda locally and nationally. Strengthening prevention and exchange between cities are likely to continue to be important aspects in the fight against drug abuse.
| City | drug residues |
|---|---|
| Neubrandenburg | Higher speed residues |
| Wilhelmshaven | High cocaine residue |
| Seesen | Increased crystal meth residue |
| Neumünster, Itzehoe | Large amounts of cocaine residue |
In summary, it can be said that the data from the analysis of [ndr.de](https://www.ndr.de/ Fernsehenen/versanden/panorama_die_reporter/meldeen/teils-hohe-werte-von-drogen-in-norddeutschem-abwasser,drogen-abwasser-norddeutschem-abwasser,drogen-abwasser-norddeutschland-100.html) and the further study insights from euda.eu shape our understanding of drug use in cities. With all the challenges that arise, keeping an eye on the health and safety of our younger generation is crucial and should not be lost sight of.