Pills and the planet: Environmentally-friendly steps for your medicine cabinet

Most people might not guess that pills (or creams, patches, and inhalers, for that matter) have a big impact on the environment — but they do. Climate change is leading to noticeable effects on the environment, as well as to consequences for our health, such as rising rates of asthma and new patterns of infectious diseases. The key driver of climate change is greenhouse gas emissions. Our health care system plays a large role, contributing close to 10% of our nation’s greenhouse gases. The US is also responsible for more than 25% of the world’s total health care emissions. Within our health care system, pharmaceutical drugs and chemicals are the largest line-item contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, pharmaceutical waste throughout the global supply chain can lead to environmental and animal toxicities, and in the case of antibiotic residues, to antimicrobial resistance (aka “superbugs”). In 2018, 5.8 billion prescriptions were filled in the US. Meanwhile, consumers spent $34 billion on over-the counter medications. Many of these drugs are lifesaving, offering us enormous benefits and healthier lives when taken correctly. But with some thought, there may be a few things you can do to make your medicine cabinet more environmentally friendly, while still keeping your health front and center. Minimize waste when buying medicines Less is more. Filling 90-day supplies of medications can reduce the overall cost per pill, offer more convenience, and require...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Drugs and Supplements Environmental health Healthy Aging Source Type: blogs