Advances and challenges in assessing antimicrobial resistance in environmental settings

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major threat to global public health. Despite substantial efforts and progress, several key questions remain unanswered, especially regarding its spread in environmental settings. Health authorities globally face significant challenges in managing this threat, including the lack of consensus on universal microbial indicators and the need for standardized methods across several stages: from sample collection, storage, and processing to analysis and harmonization of results. Moreover, addressing the complex and multi-sectoral nature of AMR requires a multifaceted response that includes enhanced surveillance, environmental monitoring, standardized methods, and innovative technologies. These efforts are essential to promote the effective implementation of regulations and policies aimed at tackling the risks posed by AMR. This article aims therefore to address the knowledge gap by discussing existing frameworks for detecting AMR in the environment, reviewing current and relevant techniques, and highlighting areas where further research is needed.