Promotion of Local Drug Return Programs: A One Health Action to Reduce Freshwater Drug Pollution

Abstract

The concentration of pharmaceuticals in global freshwater sources is a growing wicked problem, with pollution by synthetic estrogens such as 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2) becoming a particular concern. Water contamination is largely influenced by anthropogenic sources of pharmaceutical pollution and improperly discarded drugs stemming from a lack of public knowledge regarding correct disposal practices. Active metabolites from these pharmaceutical products can enter environmental surface water and groundwater sources, exerting physiological effects on organisms upon contact. This poses a significant risk to humans, non-human animals, and the environment. While pharmacies in Canada have implemented safe drug return programs, insufficient advertisement has led to low levels of awareness and compliance. In response to these limitations, Pharm-Free Freshwater was created as a grassroots initiative to address the issue of freshwater drug pollution by means of education and the creation of accessible drug return opportunities. This two-step strategy involved a social media campaign to raise awareness about safe pharmaceutical use and disposal in the community. Subsequent outreach events were designed to make pharmaceutical returns more attractive and convenient while continuing to spread awareness. By harnessing the principles of One Health, Pharm-Free Freshwater aims to promote the health and well-being of all stakeholders by advocating for the safeguarding of freshwater ecosystems on a grassroots level.