Toxic fumes and public danger: Why the open-air destruction of products outrages this expert

The secondary school inspector (IEMS) specializing in physical sciences is appalled by the open-air burning of expired products and cannabis. Here is the text he published on his Facebook page:

On January 25, 2026, we already drew attention to the dangers associated with the open-air burning of expired medications, seized pharmaceuticals, and confiscated drugs. Several months later, it is clear that this practice continues.

Even more worrying, it continues to be presented to the public as an exemplary action by the state. Images broadcast on television show piles of burning goods, satisfied authorities, and operations described as successes in the fight against drug trafficking or the management of unfit products.

However, behind this media spectacle lies a much less glamorous reality.

Burning pharmaceutical or chemical substances in the open air does not eliminate them without consequences. This combustion releases toxic fumes, fine particles, and hazardous compounds into the air, which can affect human health, contaminate soils, and cause lasting environmental damage.

Populations living near these operations, personnel deployed on-site, and even future generations can suffer the consequences. The risks include air quality, soil fertility, water resource security, and ultimately, public health.

In a context where Senegal affirms its commitment to environmental protection, the fight against climate change and sustainable development, it becomes legitimate to question the relevance of such practices.

Can we claim to protect citizens while exposing the environment to new sources of pollution? Can we continue to apply methods inherited from another era when safer and more environmentally friendly technologies exist today?

The real challenge is not to destroy the cameras quickly. It is to destroy them effectively, safely, and in accordance with modern environmental standards.

A collective awakening is essential. Old practices must be re-evaluated in light of current scientific knowledge. Senegal cannot claim to combat environmental scourges while maintaining methods that themselves contribute to pollution.

It is time to open a calm and responsible national debate on the destruction of hazardous materials. It is time to prioritize safe, technical solutions over spectacular demonstrations. Above all, it is time to align rhetoric about environmental protection with concrete actions.

The future is built through relevant choices. This is one of them.