Business trends often show that consumers will choose greener options when those options are made available. But pharmacies are not always known for being particularly green. It can be difficult to maintain a balance between being environmentally friendly and adhering to health and safety regulations. However, there are ways that pharmacies can become more sustainable.
Reducing Waste
Pharmacies generate a large amount of plastic waste. It is possible, however, to reduce the amount of plastic waste with a few simple steps, like:
- Ordering larger bottles of medications instead of several smaller bottles.
- Recycling plastic waste by sending it to recycling depots that will accept prescription bottles and empty blister packs.
Protecting the Water Supply
The presence of pharmaceutical drugs in water supplies can be traced to human excretion and improper disposal of medications. This poses a threat to natural ecosystems and living organisms. Educate customers on the best ways to dispose of medications to show your dedication to the community.
Communicating with Pharmaceutical Manufacturers
By expressing concern about the need for sustainable practices to manufacturers, it’s possible to advance dialogue about environmentally friendly solutions. Urging manufacturers to conduct more research of the effect of drugs on the environment will provide more answers to questions patients are asking.
Green Building
Like any business, pharmacies consume energy and resources. If you own your building, you have more freedom to construct, install, or retrofit aspects of your facility. However, even renters can choose to implement more sustainable lighting, heating, and cooling solutions.
Learn more about the movement for environmentally sustainable pharmacy practices from the National Institute of Health. Has your pharmacy taken environmental initiatives? Share in the comments below.
