Prevalence of cannabis use in Europe
Cannabis remains, by far, the most consumed drug in Europe, with particularly high rates of consumption in countries such as the Czech Republic, Spain, the Netherlands, Croatia and Italy.
In 2021, the Czech Republic, for example, recorded a prevalence rate of 11.1%, followed closely by Spain at 10.6%, the Netherlands at 10.4%, and Croatia and Italy, both at 10.2%.
Consumption among young people is particularly high. Among the 29 million European consumers, 15.3 million are aged 15 to 34.
In May 2023, 8.6 million young people aged 15 to 24 have used cannabis at least once. The Czech Republic is, once again, in the lead, with a prevalence of 22.9% among this age group, followed by Italy at 20.9%, France and the Netherlands at 19.2% then Spain at 19.1%.
Increased potency of cannabis: what are the implications?
According to a Europol study, the average potency of herbal cannabis increased by 57% between 2010 and 2021, while that of cannabis resin has almost tripled, with an increase of almost 200% over the same period.
This increase raises new health concerns, as high THC levels are associated with an increased risk of addiction and mental health problems.
You should know that in 2021, more than 97,000 Europeans began treatment for cannabis dependence, with an over-representation of men (83%), who are essentially consumers daily.
Health risk, delinquency and pollution
The cannabis market is the most lucrative branch of drug trafficking in Europe, generating nearly 11.4 billion euros in profits each year. Traffic techniques have evolved with the use of drones, helicopters and autonomous semi-submersible vessels.
Beyond the obvious health risk and the delinquency that accompanies it, the illegal cultivation of cannabis has a considerable environmental impact. A single cultivation site with 500 plants can use between 1.6 and 2 million liters of water per year, which is equivalent to the volume of an Olympic swimming pool, according to Europol data.
Also, a significant portion of the electricity used for these crops is often diverted, which further accentuates environmental and economic concerns.
Faced with these challenges, several European countries, such as the Czech Republic, Germany and Luxembourg, have taken measures to legalize the recreational use of cannabis in order to more effectively regulate this market and discourage traffickers.
