Proper Drug Disposal
The Role of Hospice in Water Pollution Prevention
Presented by: Insert Name Here, Insert Organization Here
INSERT LOGO HERE
Water & Wastewater Treatment
• Anything that goes down the drain is a potential pollutant that can end up in our rivers, lakes, streams & oceans
• These water bodies provide our drinking water • Water and wastewater treatment facilities are designed
to disinfect the water by killing micro-organisms, not to remove complex chemical compounds.
Impact to Aquatic Life
In addition to concern over human health & exposure, there is evidence suggesting water pollutants are impacting wildlife• Frogs:
– Reproductive abnormalities (Hermaphrodism, etc.)– Behavioral changes– Neurological, immune & urinary system failures
• Fish– Reduced mass & limb deformities – Delayed development, increased metamorphosis time – Neurological system failures
As these organisms are at the bottom of the food chain, consider how their predators could be impacted too
Pollutants of Concern
PPCPs (Pharmaceuticals & Personal Care Products):• Prescription Medication Cosmetics• Over-the-Counter Medicines Sunscreen Products• Veterinary Drugs Insect Repellent• Fragrances Vitamins• Lotions Antibacterial Soaps
Sources of PPCPs in the Environment
• Human and domestic animal metabolic excretion • Treated sewage effluent• Untreated sewage spills• Septic systems• Direct release (bathing, swimming, agriculture, aquaculture) • Illicit discharge (commercial or industrial facilities)• Landfill leachate
The Issue
• Water and wastewater treatment processes have not been designed to remove PPCPs
• While some PPCPs breakdown easily, others do not and pass through treatment into the environment
• Whenever possible we should keep these products out of the water system
Prevention
Reduce the volume of PPCPs entering the environment
• Proper disposal of medications is an effective measure that can be addressed immediately
• Be conscious of the products you purchase
• Consider the quantity of the product you purchase
Proper Disposal• Federal guidelines recommend the “mix & toss”
method, using undesirable substances
• Do not flush unless specifically instructed
• Disposal video
• Distribute written method and feedback form
DiscussionCurrent Disposal Practice
• How does this hospice organization dispose of medicine?
• Are you willing to try this alternative method?• What are your concerns regarding disposal?• Would your staff like to tour a wastewater
plant and see our process?
Thank You
The insert organization name encourages you to consider adopting the
pharmaceutical disposal method discussed today
Insert your name and contact here
Top Related