Doug Johnson

Doug is a writer, editor and journalist whose work has appeared in National Geographic, Undark Magazine, New Scientist and Hakai, among others. He lives in Alberta, Canada.

The Chronic Challenge of Burnout Among Harm Reduction Workers

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in the midst of the overdose crisis, many harm reduction workers are…

March 20, 2023

Kentucky Takes Steps Toward Decriminalizing Fentanyl Test Strips

A bipartisan bill in Kentucky would decriminalize fentanyl test strips. In early March, House Bill 353, introduced by Rep. Kimberly…

March 10, 2023

Spread Across Cities, Could Fire Stations Host Safe Consumption Sites?

There are 41 fire stations spread across Calgary, Alberta. To a group of University of Calgary medical students, they represent…

March 7, 2023

The Case for Prohibition—and Its Violence—as UN Rights Breach

It’s well documented that banning drugs leads to violence. But a new paper, published in the International Journal of Drug…

February 27, 2023

“Regressive Thinking” Ends Syringe, Pipe Distribution at Edmonton Transit Stations

Until recently, Boyle Street Community Services staff had been handing out various harm reduction tools to people who wanted and…

February 21, 2023

Inherent Problems With Post-Incarceration Services for Drug Users

Social service programs have a long way to go to build trust with people who use drugs who have been…

February 15, 2023

Project to Set Up 100 Harm Reduction “Vending Machines” Across Canada

Vending machines are increasingly being deployed to distribute harm reduction supplies in North America. As Filter has reported, they’re being…

February 6, 2023

As Decriminalization Begins in British Columbia, Activists Watch Warily

British Columbia has officially become the first first province in Canada to decriminalize possession of small quantities of opioids, cocaine,…

January 31, 2023

New Jersey’s Plan to Offer Free Naloxone for All at Pharmacies

Getting naloxone should be about to get much easier in New Jersey. Governor Phil Murphy (D) announced in his January…

January 23, 2023

Heroin Nasal Spray Increases Harm Reduction Options in Switzerland

Back in the 1990s, Switzerland pioneered heroin-assisted treatment—successfully addressing HIV and overdose crises by offering an early form of safe…

January 17, 2023