Why in news?
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released a report warning that improper disposal of unused or expired medicines poses serious risks to the environment and public health. The report urges governments and industry to establish safe collection and disposal systems.
Background
UNEP was established in 1972 and is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. It serves as the leading global authority on environmental issues, coordinating responses to crises and supporting the implementation of international agreements. In recent years attention has turned to pharmaceutical waste, which enters water bodies and soil through household trash or sewage and can contribute to antimicrobial resistance and endocrine disruption in wildlife. Many countries lack clear guidance on how consumers should dispose of medicines.
Highlights of the UNEP report
- The report stresses a “One Health” approach, recognising that human, animal and ecosystem health are interconnected. It links the presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment to the spread of drug‑resistant microbes.
- UNEP recommends preventing waste at the source by encouraging responsible prescription and distribution of medicines. It calls for national take‑back programmes where consumers can return unused medicines to pharmacies or authorised centres.
- It emphasises the need for legal frameworks and clear guidelines on collecting, transporting and destroying pharmaceutical waste, including opportunities for public‑private partnerships.
Indian initiatives
- India’s National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance 2.0 calls for developing safe disposal mechanisms for unused medicines, reflecting the growing concern about drug pollution.
- The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued draft guidelines on handling medicine returns, and some states have introduced pilot take‑back schemes. For example, Kerala’s nPROUD programme encourages households to return unused antibiotics and painkillers to designated pharmacies.
- Public awareness remains low; education campaigns and convenient drop‑off points are necessary to change disposal behaviour.
Conclusion
UNEP’s report highlights an overlooked source of pollution. Implementing take‑back programmes, tightening regulations and educating consumers will help ensure that unused medicines are disposed of safely rather than harming waterways and wildlife.
Source: Down To Earth
