In honour of World COPD Day GSK promotes environmentally responsible disposal of used inhalers through health product stewardship program
- Patients can take action to help reduce landfill waste and prevent harmful chemicals from entering the environment with the medications return program.
MISSISAUGA, ON - To mark World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day, GSK Canada is placing a spotlight on its partnership with the Health Products Stewardship Association (HPSA), a national initiative that aims to redirect used inhalers from landfills by returning to participating pharmacies for environmentally responsible disposal.
Inhalers are essential for managing chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma. However, improper disposal of these devices can pose environmental risks. GSK Canada is an advocate of environmental sustainability and actively supports programs such as the HPSA's medications and medical sharps take-back programs to help address these impacts.
"As a global biopharma leader, we are committed to playing our part in getting ahead of disease and of issues that matter for society. Sustainability is a fundamental pillar of GSK’s approach and our collaboration with the HPSA and endorsement of their inhaler recovery program exemplifies this commitment. By promoting sustainable practices that benefit individuals and the environment, we are helping to create a healthier and more sustainable future," said Alison Pozzobon, Head of Communications and Interim Head, Government Affairs and Market Access.
The is part of HPSA's broader take-back programs, aimed at the promotion of safe disposal of unwanted medications and used medical sharps. Currently, more than 7,000 collection locations including pharmacies and vet clinics across Canada are involved in these programs. These efforts help diminish waste and prevent harmful chemicals from entering landfills, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gasses.
"The medication return program, which includes inhalers, plays a pivotal role in reducing the environmental impact of used medical products," shares Terri Drover, President and CEO, HPSA. "We are proud to collaborate with GSK in encouraging broader participation in this initiative. By returning inhalers to pharmacies, we ensure their safe disposal and make a positive environmental impact."
HPSA underscores the importance of its program in British Columbia, where the BC Medications Return Program for Pharmaceuticals has been in place since 1997, making it one of the association’s longest-running programs. The program has successfully fostered sustainable practices among residents across the province. Through the legislated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, HPSA also manages British Columbia’s Medication Return Program (BCMRP), furthering its commitment to responsible pharmaceutical disposal and environmental stewardship.
For patients relying on inhalers for different health needs, the medication return program offers them a convenient way to dispose of used products while also helping them to play their part in protecting the environment. "This initiative represents a simple action that contributes to making our communities cleaner,” added Christopher Lam, President & CEO, BC Lung Foundation. “It is reassuring to see options for patients managing respiratory conditions to dispose responsibly used inhalers. As we strive for cleaner air and a greener future, we are thrilled to see initiatives such as the HPSA's BC Medications Return Program for Pharmaceuticals being accessible widely across pharmacies.”
Working alongside patients and pharmacies will help reinforce and educate the broader community about the importance of safe disposal practices, ultimately protecting public health and the environment.
Get Involved: How to Join the Initiative
GSK Canada and HPSA encourage patients across the country to participate in this impactful initiative by returning their used inhalers to local pharmacies. To locate the nearest eligible pharmacy, please visit
https://healthsteward.ca/consumers/returning-medications/.
For pharmacies interested in joining HPSA’s medications return program, additional information on how to sign up can be found at https://healthsteward.ca/pharmacists/provinces.
About GSK
GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com.
About HPSA
The Health Products Stewardship Association (HPSA) is a national, not-for-profit organization that ensures the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of health products across Canada. Through its innovative stewardship programs, HPSA manages the collection and disposal of unused or expired medications, medical sharps, and other healthcare products. By working closely with pharmacies, manufacturers, and healthcare professionals, HPSA helps protect both public health and the environment, preventing harmful substances from entering landfills or water systems. For more information, visit www.healthsteward.ca.
About BC Lung Foundation
The BC Lung Foundation is committed to giving British Columbians affected by a lung or breathing condition – hope, help and a voice.
