Take-back efforts on rise

When state Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, learned that medications are polluting waterways nationwide, he decided to do something about it.
His idea, which several San Diego County sewage agencies are expected to vote today to support, is to require pharmacies take back outdated or unneeded medications so residents don’t flush them down the toilet.

That’s long been a common way to keep prescription drugs out of the hands of children, but it’s no longer recommended because of its effects on fish and possibly on people.

Simitian’s strategy builds on an emerging national trend to push companies that produce or distribute products to help reduce the environmental damage their goods cause.

Full Story on Union-Tribune website

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