Why are we concerned about pharmaceutical waste?
The United States Geological Survey conducted a study in 2002, sampling 139 streams across 30 states and found that 80 percent had measurable concentrations of prescription and nonprescription drugs, steroids, and reproductive hormones.
How is this happening? Without convenient disposal options, people often discard unused and expired medications by dumping them down the drain, flushing them down toilets, and throwing them in the trash. Areas with municipal water treatment systems treat waste water, but trace amounts of drugs can still be found in the treated water, once it is ready to discharge to waterways. Studies like the USGS study referenced above show that exposure, even to low levels of drugs, can have negative effects on fish and other aquatic species and may also have harmful effects on human health.
Communities throughout the state are considering how to handle pharmaceutical waste. Local governments need Extended Producer Responsibility. Consumers want convenient take-back locations at the same place they purchase their medicines and prescription drugs. |
Green pharmacy program keeps unused medications out of local water supply 
Policy & Legislation
