Safe disposal of medicines: A helpful solution for our planet

Adequate medicine disposal is crucial for environmental and public health. Unused or expired medications pose serious risks when disposed of incorrectly, as they can contaminate water sources and harm wildlife. Encouraging responsible disposal helps prevent the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, increasing the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Public awareness about safe disposal methods, such as drug take-back programs, not only safeguards the environment but also contributes to a safer, healthier community by minimizsing potential hazards associated with improper medication disposal in short- and long-term perspectives.

Moderator:
- Chima Amadi, Public health pharmacist
1) Public health Division, Birmingham City Council, United Kingdom
2) Clemac Digital Health, Nigeria.

Facilitator:
- Ruben Viegas, FIP Sustainability and Humanitarian Programme Manager, FIP, The Netherlands

Panellists:
- Bee Yean LOW, Associate Professor, University of Nottingham Malaysia
- Ladan Karim-Nejad, Regulatory Affairs Fellow, Pharmaceutical Industry, USA
- Luis Figueiredo