The National Drug Harm Index’s $1.5 billion estimate for methamphetamine-related social harm in New Zealand is indeed described as “conservative.” At approximately $1 million of harm per kilogram, this figure likely understates the true impact.
The index fails to fully account for indirect costs. For example, many incarcerated for theft are supporting methamphetamine dependencies, yet acquisitive crime represents only a small fraction of the calculated harm.
This raises important questions about resource allocation. When government priorities and funding decisions rely on these metrics, are we addressing the full scope of the problem?
For homeowners and communities, understanding these impacts is crucial. Comprehensive solutions must consider both direct and indirect consequences to effectively combat drug-related harm in our neighbourhoods.
