ICARS is pleased to announce the launch of two new projects aimed at addressing the environmental dimensions of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These projects, selected through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, focus on implementing innovative, evidence-based interventions in Tunisia and Cameroon to reduce AMR risks in natural and built environments.
Understanding AMR in the environment
AMR is a global health concern affecting humans, animals, and the environment. While substantial research has been conducted on AMR in human health and veterinary settings, the environmental dimension remains an underexplored yet critical factor in its evolution and transmission. Bacteria in soil, water, and air serve as reservoirs of resistant genes, influenced by human activities such as agricultural practices, wastewater discharge, and pharmaceutical pollution.
To address this gap, ICARS initiated an RFP calling for multi-disciplinary research projects focused on mitigating AMR risks in environmental hotspots, including wastewater treatment facilities, healthcare institutions, and agricultural sectors. Following a rigorous selection process, ICARS is supporting two projects: CARMA (Constructed wetlands for mitigating Antimicrobial Resistance in reclaiMed water used for the irrigAtion of food crops) in Tunisia and an urban agriculture AMR mitigation initiative in Cameroon.
CARMA: Enhancing Wastewater Treatment for Safer Irrigation (Tunisia)
In Tunisia, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) play a crucial role in water resource management, yet they also contribute to AMR transmission due to the incomplete removal of antimicrobial residues, antimicrobial resistant genes, and resistant bacteria. The CARMA project aims to implement nature-based solutions, specifically constructed wetlands (CWL), to improve wastewater treatment processes and reduce AMR risks associated with reclaimed water used for irrigation.
Objectives of the project
- Assess the effectiveness of CWL in reducing antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB), antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), and antibiotic residues from wastewater.
- Develop a strategic roadmap for expanding CWL implementation at the national level.
- Engage stakeholders through awareness campaigns, training programmes, and capacity-building initiatives.
Expected outcomes
- Improved wastewater treatment protocols to lower AMR transmission into the food chain.
- Comprehensive risk assessment and feasibility studies guiding policy recommendations.
- Increased public awareness and professional training on the environmental dimensions of AMR.
Supporting Safe Wastewater Use in Urban Agriculture (Cameroon)
In Cameroon, urban agriculture is vital for food security and employment, but reliance on untreated wastewater for irrigation presents a public health concern. This project seeks to develop cost-effective strategies to reduce AMR transmission through wastewater irrigation by implementing targeted interventions at farm and market levels.
Objectives of the project
- Conduct a cross-sectional study to assess AMR prevalence in wastewater used for irrigation.
- Design and test interventions to reduce AMR transmission while maintaining agricultural productivity.
- Utilize genomic epidemiology to monitor AMR transmission from wastewater to food and households.
- Collaborate with national stakeholders to integrate findings into policies promoting safer wastewater reuse practices.
Expected outcomes
- Data-driven insights into AMR transmission pathways through urban agriculture.
- Identification and validation of effective, scalable interventions for wastewater management.
- Increased awareness among farmers, policymakers, and consumers about AMR risks and mitigation strategies.
Collaborating for sustainable AMR solutions
These projects reflect ICARS’ commitment to supporting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in developing sustainable, evidence-based AMR mitigation strategies. By addressing environmental AMR through intervention and implementation research, ICARS aims to generate insights that inform policies and contribute to improved public health outcomes.
As these projects progress, ICARS will work closely with local and international stakeholders to support the adoption and scaling of these innovative solutions. By integrating AMR interventions within environmental and public health policies, ICARS continues to contribute to global efforts in addressing this important health challenge.