The Alarming Rise of Cocaine in Barcelona Wastewater: A Growing Problem

A study reveals that drug concentrations in European wastewater have grown significantly, with Spain leading the way.

The recent publication of a report by the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) has set off alarm bells in Spain and, especially, in Barcelona. According to the study, the presence of cocaine in this city's wastewater tripled in 2025 compared to the previous year, while Lleida also saw a notable increase, doubling its figures. These data reflect a worrying trend in drug use in several European cities, highlighting Spain as one of the most affected countries.

The study was carried out by the international network of epidemiological experts SCORE, in collaboration with the EUDA, and included a comprehensive analysis of 115 cities in 25 countrieswhich include 23 nations of the European Union, plus Norway and Türkiye. The conclusions are clear: drug consumption is increasing throughout Europe, with a special mention for cocaine and ketamine.

In general terms, the concentrations of ketamine and cocaine in European wastewater saw an increase in 2025. However, the synthetic drug MDMA showed a “marked decline” over the same period, suggesting a shift in consumption patterns on the continent.

According to the report, the amount of cocaine found in European sewers increased almost 22% year-on-year between 2024 and 2025. This growth is particularly alarming in Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands, which are positioned as the countries with the highest levels of this substance. Among the Spanish cities analyzed, Barcelona stands out as the one that has registered the greatest increase, with an impressive growth of 185.29% compared to the previous year. For its part, Lleida is not far behind, with an increase in 125.28%.

In addition to cocaine, the study also revealed that the presence of ketamine in wastewater increased almost 41% year-on-year in 66 cities with comparable data from 2024 to 2025. The highest concentrations of this drug were detected in locations in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, which highlights a serious public health problem in these regions.

On the other hand, the situation with the synthetic drug MDMA is notably different. The total amount of MDMA in wastewater decreased by 16% year-on-year in the 78 cities that had data for 2024 and 2025. This decrease could indicate a change in consumer preferences towards other substances or a possible effectiveness in prevention and harm reduction campaigns.

The results of this study are not only relevant for health authorities, but also for policy makers who must address the growing drug crisis in Europe. The rising trend in cocaine and ketamine use raises difficult questions about how drug policies are managed in Spain and the rest of the continent. Cities must prepare to implement effective strategies to counteract these alarming increases and protect public health.

The data presented in the report underlines the need for greater awareness and education about drug use. Community initiatives and prevention programs are essential to address this phenomenon and help reduce harmful substance use. Thus, society can move towards a healthier and safer future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What substances have increased in Barcelona's wastewater?: The report reveals a significant increase in the presence of cocaine and ketamine, while MDMA has shown a decrease.
2. How much has cocaine increased in Barcelona?: Cocaine in Barcelona wastewater tripled in 2025, with an increase of 185.29% compared to the previous year.
3. What other Spanish cities are affected by this increase?: Lleida is another Spanish city that has seen a notable increase in the presence of cocaine, doubling its figures in 2025.
4. How was the wastewater study carried out?: The study was carried out by the SCORE network in collaboration with the EUDA, analyzing data from 115 cities in 25 countries.
5. What impact does the increase in drugs have on public health?: Increased drug use can lead to significant public health problems, including addiction and related diseases.
6. What measures are being taken to address this crisis?: Authorities must implement effective prevention and education strategies to combat the increase in drug use.
7. What other countries are seeing an increase in drug use?: Belgium and the Netherlands also report high levels of drugs in their wastewater, along with Spain.
8. Why is it important to monitor wastewater?: Wastewater analysis provides valuable data on the pattern of drug consumption, helping to design appropriate policies.
9. What can be done at the community level to reduce drug use?: Local awareness initiatives and prevention programs are key to educating the population about the risks of consumption.
10. Where can I find more information on this topic?: You can join our Telegram channel to receive updates and news on health and drug use: Telegram.