Honduras, May 10, 2024. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) through the Regional Programme for the Safe Handling and Disposal of Seized Drugs and Chemical Precursors (STAND) provides technical support in inter-institutional coordination for the final disposal of 28 tons of potassium carbonate seized in Puerto Cortés in 2021.
Potassium carbonate is a substance widely used in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, fertilizer manufacturing, and chemical production; however, it is subject to regulation due to its potential to be diverted to the illicit market for use in the production chain of naturally derived drugs.
Furthermore, improper storage of potassium carbonate carries risks that increase over time, which can lead to adverse consequences for physical security, health, and the environment. Therefore, the implementation of effective final disposal methods to mitigate these risks is crucial.
UNODC, through the STAND Programme, promotes sustainable solutions for the safe disposal of chemicals used in illicit drug manufacturing. In Ecuador, the burial method in landfills for non-hazardous seized chemicals has been promoted.
Thus, Honduras becomes the second country to implement the burial method in landfills through public and local partnerships. It is important to highlight that this process is essential to contain leachate, thus preventing groundwater and aquifer contamination. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in environmental protection and public health.
The burial method for final disposal is one of those recommended in the UNODC Illustrated Guide for the Elimination of Chemicals Used in Illicit Manufacturing. For more information, visit here: https://bit.ly/3WD1tNk.
Currently, an environmental guide is being developed to provide an effective and efficient response to the seizure of these non-hazardous chemicals.
These actions are carried out thanks to the financial support of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the Government of the United States of America.