Medication Disposal
Keeping our Island Green

Did you know that approximately 250 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste are disposed of annually on a nation-wide basis? Compounds including antibiotics, personal care products and caffeine are regularly disposed of improperly and too often get into water systems. As a result, regulatory agencies have begun to recognize that there may be long-term effects on our water supplies.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) have implemented guidelines for hospitals regarding the proper disposal of hazardous wastes. We are pleased to report that Martha's Vineyard Hospital strictly follows these guidelines, however the members of our community are often unaware of environmentally responsible disposal options for their unused medications.

SMARxT Disposal is an online resource that offers information to consumers on how to properly dispose of pharmaceutical waste. To help us keep our aquifer safe and the Vineyard green, visit their website here.