MWRD Collects Unwanted Pharmaceuticals

Oct. 13, 2015
The district worked with the U.S. DEA to collect 237 lb of unwanted drugs

Working with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) collected 237 lb of unwanted pharmaceuticals that are often mistakenly deposited in toilets and drains and destined for local waterways.

In conjunction with the DEA Chicago Field Div., MWRD hosted the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Sept. 25 to 26, 2015, at its main office building and three water reclamation plants (WRP) across the Chicago area.

The Stickney WRP in Cicero collected 84 lb of medicine, while the O'Brien WRP in Skokie amassed 71 lb and the Calumet WRP on the far South Side took in 53 lb. In addition, the MWRD's main office building, at 100 E. Erie St., collected 29 lb on Sept. 25.

"It's important not to dispose of medications down the drain because they end up in the water supply. Controlling what goes down the drain is the easiest and most effective way to protect our environment," said MWRD president Mariyana Spyropoulos. "We are pleased to partner with the DEA on this important event. This initiative offers a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications and harm to the environment."

To prevent or reduce accidental contamination of streams, rivers and lakes, MWRD has participated in the DEA's initiative each year since the event was launched in 2010. The drug collection is an environmentally responsible and secure way to dispose of medications. Water treatment facilities are not designed to remove minute concentrations of pharmaceuticals and as a result, the chemicals could wind up in area streams and waterways and potentially have a negative impact on water quality.

There are many ways to reduce the amount of pharmaceuticals before they reach treatment facilities and/or the waterways. The first is to complete the course of treatment as prescribed by the physician. For over-the-counter products, a supply should be monitored and stored in one location at home to prevent the purchase of additional or extras. Homeowners are encouraged never to pour the pharmaceuticals down the toilet or drain or give or sell them to others. For those with unwanted medicine unable to participate in the Drug Take Back Day, various police stations and municipalities across Cook County allow medicine to be deposited throughout the year. The city of Chicago collects unwanted medicines 24 hour per day, seven days per week at its police facilities as well. 

Source: Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Sponsored Recommendations

Blower Package Integration

March 20, 2024
See how an integrated blower package can save you time, money, and energy, in a wastewater treatment system. With package integration, you have a completely integrated blower ...

Strut Comparison Chart

March 12, 2024
Conduit support systems are an integral part of construction infrastructure. Compare steel, aluminum and fiberglass strut support systems.

Energy Efficient System Design for WWTPs

Feb. 7, 2024
System splitting with adaptive control reduces electrical, maintenance, and initial investment costs.

Blower Isentropic Efficiency Explained

Feb. 7, 2024
Learn more about isentropic efficiency and specific performance as they relate to blowers.