WHO Publishes First Guidance to Combat Antibiotic Pollution from Manufacturing

WHO Guidance:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued its first-ever guidance aimed at reducing antibiotic pollution from manufacturing, focusing on wastewater and solid waste management.

Purpose:
The guidance aims to mitigate the global risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by controlling pollution from antibiotic production, which can facilitate the emergence of new drug-resistant bacteria.

Scope:
The guidance covers all steps in antibiotic manufacturing, from active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) to formulation and packaging, and addresses risks for both human health and aquatic life.

Importance:
Controlling antibiotic pollution is crucial to keep antibiotics effective, as AMR can undermine their effectiveness globally, including at manufacturing sites responsible for pollution.

International Support:
The guidance was developed in collaboration with international experts and has been called for by various bodies, including the WHO Executive Board, G7 health ministers, and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Transparency:
The guidance emphasizes transparency, enabling buyers, investors, and the public to make informed decisions based on manufacturers' efforts to control antibiotic pollution.

Implementation:
The guidance includes best practices for risk management, internal and external audits, and public transparency, with a focus on progressive implementation and stepwise improvement.