The Great Neck Water Pollution Control District (GNWPCD) held its 13th semiannual Shed the Meds event at the District headquarters on April 28.
It was a record-setting day for the District, as 255 cars collectively dropped off 617 pounds of unused or expired pharmaceuticals, both of which are all-time highs for the event. Residents also dropped off enough medical sharps to fill thirteen 17-gallon containers, which was also a record high.
Since Shed the Meds began seven years ago, the District has now collected nearly 6,000 pounds of unused pharmaceuticals and medical sharps.
The district’s Shed the Meds event is also one of the only places on Long Island where residents can safely dispose of medical sharps, as most local police precincts, healthcare locations, and other pharmaceutical take-back day events do not accept these materials.
“It was absolutely phenomenal to see such incredible participation from our community for this spring’s Shed the Meds,” said GNWPCD Commissioner Patty Katz. “Since it serves as a unique opportunity for residents to safely dispose of unused pharmaceuticals and medical sharps in one place, Shed the Meds always has a tremendous turnout, but this event was truly special. It shows us that our residents believe in the GNWPCD’s mission of environmental protection and reminds us of why we are so proud to serve this community.”
The biannual event, hosted in partnership with Reach Out America, Great Neck Breast Cancer Coalition, Nassau County Police, and the Key Club at Great Neck North High School, aims to protect local water sources and raise awareness of the dangers of flushing pharmaceuticals down the toilet.
New York State Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti and Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena were on hand to aid District officials in collecting and disposing of these materials.
For additional information and updates about the Great Neck Water Pollution Control District, visit the website at www.gnwpcd.net to sign up for email newsletters or call the office at 516-482-0238.
