Disposal Techniques that Protect Long Island Water Supply
Why is the safe disposal of pharmaceuticals important for Long Island water quality? The saying, “old habits die hard” is particularly true when speaking about the age-old practice of flushing pharmaceuticals down the toilet. Unfortunately, we now know that when flushed down the toilet, prescription and over the counter medications can contaminate Long Island water supply in addition to our surface waters. According to the Suffolk County Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan, pharmaceuticals have been found in community public supply wells as well as private well samples throughout various parts of the County. Generally speaking, our septic systems and typical sewage treatment plants do not filter out these contaminants from our water supply. Therefore, it’s imperative to discontinue the practice of flushing and seek safe disposal methods.
Safe disposal of unwanted pharmaceuticals is easier than you think. Instead of flushing, bring pharmaceuticals to drop boxes located in virtually every police station throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties in addition to police departments located in Suffolk’s five East End towns. The boxes are located in the lobbies of the police stations. No paperwork is required, it’s an anonymous drop. For a complete list of locations, check out Citizens Campaign for the Environment’s listing of drop off locations. Visit Group for the East End’s, East End Pharmaceutical Disposal page for locations within the five East End towns. Additionally, be on the look out for “take-back” events sponsored by various townships and non-profit organizations.
Stay up to date on this topic and more related to protecting and preserving Long Island water quality. Become a member of the Long Island Clean Water Partnership today!
By: Jennifer Hartnagel, Group for the East End