Inhaler recycling scheme launched
Published 24 Apr 2012 09:30
PEOPLE with respiratory illnesses in the Vale can recycle their old inhalers for the first time.
Complete the Cycle, is an innovative respiratory inhaler take back scheme run by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and supported by TerraCycle UK and participating pharmacies, which aims to dramatically reduce the environmental impacts associated with disposing of respiratory inhalers commonly used to treat asthma and COPD.
It was rolled out yesterday (Monday) at The Co-operative Pharmacy in Dalvait Road, Balloch.
The take back scheme was originally piloted for over six months in 40 Co-operative Pharmacies in Spring 2011 and since last November, has been operating successfully in an additional 160 Co-operative pharmacies in the south and west of England and all of Wales
The scheme is now being launched in 65 Co-operative pharmacies in Scotland.
Since the start of the pilot, approximately 20,000 respiratory inhalers, or six per cent of those that would normally be used and disposed of in the period, were returned, preventing the release of the inhaler propellant, which is a greenhouse gas, into the environment.
The amount of propellant saved is equivalent to preventing the release of around 114 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2), which equates to 20 trips around the world in a 1.4 VW Golf.
Lyndsay McAlinden, pharmacist at The Co-operative Pharmacy in Dalvait Road, Balloch commented: "I'm delighted to be able to offer this simple yet effective service to my customers, and believe together we can make an important difference to our environment.
"As a responsible and ethical business it is important to take a lead in sustainable initiatives like these."
This article appeared in Dumbarton & Vale of Leven Reporter 23 Apr 12
Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our News archives.
Dumbarton & Vale of Leven Reporter Poll
Are you prepared for another onslaught of snow?
This Poll is now closed.
Yes (88.7%)
No (11.3%)
