A leading addiction expert tasked by the German government to evaluate the recently implemented Cannabis Act has stated that alcohol poses a significantly greater public health concern than cannabis.
Jakob Manthey, presenting the initial interim report on the evaluation of the Consumption Cannabis Act (EKOCAN) on Monday, highlighted the disproportionate issues stemming from alcohol consumption. He acknowledged that while the evaluation focuses on cannabis, he personally advocates for stricter alcohol control policies, noting that this remains a separate matter.
The report, prepared by Manthey and a team of researchers, repeatedly draws parallels between cannabis consumption and tobacco use throughout its analysis. The evaluation team is calling for a harmonization of regulations, suggesting it is illogical to permit tobacco smoking in public spaces like playgrounds while prohibiting the consumption of cannabis joints. Manthey emphasized the perceived inconsistencies and the need for action to create a “smoke-free environment” citing the detrimental impact of public tobacco use on bystanders.
The Consumption Cannabis Act, which came into effect in April 2024, legalized private cultivation and community-based cultivation through grower’s associations. The ongoing evaluation aims to assess the Act’s impact. Estimates indicate that approximately 5.3 million adults in Germany consumed cannabis during 2024.
