Unwanted Medication Collection (2010 LGAA)

Village of Endicott (Winner)
County: Broome County
Population: 10,001 to 50,000
Village Hall: (607) 757-2421

The Unwanted Medication Collection program was developed by researching similar programs that have been initiated in other states, and putting it into action in the Village of Endicott. The program was originally developed in response to pharmaceuticals being found in public water supplies. The public disposing of unwanted medications into a wastewater treatment system is a major entry point. To address this problem, this program allows any person to come to one central location and, free of charge, dispose of any unwanted medication. The collected medications are then transported to a solid waste incinerator which prevents the medication from entering the water system. Prior to the event, residents did not have a way to dispose of medications that would protect both public safety and the environment.

Through the use of Unwanted Medication Collection, the Village was able to address the idea that a wastewater treatment facility is not designed to treat or eliminate pharmaceuticals from the wastewater. The ability to remove medications prior to entering the wastewater could prevent the need for additional wastewater treatment processes at the municipal wastewater treatment facility. The program has provided a service improvement by removing and destroying controlled and non controlled substances. The participation of the municipal Police Department allowed for the ability of controlled substances to be collected. The program resulted in cost and time savings in the municipality by removing potentially harmful and lethal medications which, when misused, can result in the need for emergency services. Also, by removing unwanted and unused medications from households, this program helped address the serious issue of increased prescription medication abuse.

The Unwanted Medication Collection program can be duplicated by any other municipality by identifying someone interested in organizing the initiative, filing the appropriate regulatory paperwork and gaining the participation of local law enforcement. This event has allowed residents to dispose of their unwanted medications safely and easily, and was a great help since many resident participants spoke of not having an appropriate disposal option prior to the program.