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Environmental Effects of Meth Labs

Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as "meth," comes in the forms of odorless powders or crystals. Not only is the drug detrimental to people's health, meth labs are environmental hazards. All meth is made with pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, which are found in over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup. Other ingredients used to make meth, such as brake cleaners, sulfuric acid and lithium, can be extremely toxic.

Toxic Waste
- For every pound of meth produced, five to six pounds of toxic waste are left behind. Single ingredients used to make meth can be toxic, and combining ingredients together increases the levels of toxicity. The waste from the meth-making process is often washed down sinks, put in trash, poured on ground or flushed down toilets, which exposes the surrounding community that uses the water. The health effects of the toxic waste vary, depending on which chemicals were used and how long a person has been exposed to them. Cancer, major organ failure, dizziness, nausea and other ailments have been reported after meth lab exposure.
Toxic Fumes
- Meth is made in a laboratory-type setting, which involves mixing and heating chemicals. The fumes from the drug are toxic and can affect the people living in the house and surrounding households. Children who are unfortunate enough to live in these environments are particularly affected by the fumes. Their bodies are not as developed as those of adults and are more susceptible to harm.
Volatile Organic Compounds
- Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are regularly used in the production of meth. These gasses, which have adverse health effects as serious as cancer, are released during the meth-making process as gasses. When released, these harmful substances affect the groundwater and air of the surrounding community. The use of flammable materials in close proximity to fire increases the risk of fires and explosions. When a meth lab explodes, the toxic fumes are released into the environment at an alarming rate.
Chemical Residue
- After meth labs are shut down and removed, the residual effects can still be harmful to the surrounding environment. The toxic ingredients used to make meth leave behind residue that is extremely difficult to clean up. In fact, meth labs can completely contaminate a property. The fumes from the drug can permeate walls, floors and other permanent structures. The glass and equipment made to use meth is also contaminated. These substances are not typically disposed of properly, and can be present for years.

Nature