Sustainability and pharmacy
On November 4, 2022, the Green Deal Sustainable Care 3.0 was signed by the central government and many parties in the Netherlands. The goal of this plan is to make healthcare more sustainable and effective. In February 2023, several healthcare organizations developed this plan, including the pharmacists' trade association. Health insurer(s) support/support this plan and help with costs. Our pharmacy has contracted this care because we think it is important. What you can do to contribute to sustainability and what you notice about this campaign in the pharmacy, read below.
Why the Green Deal Sustainable Care?
In the Netherlands, the healthcare sector is responsible for about 7% of the national carbon footprint. In addition, 4% of waste and 13% of resource use (metals and minerals) can be attributed to healthcare. The healthcare sector wants 'green and climate neutral care' with minimal greenhouse gas emissions and impact on the living environment. With sustainable care, the sector contributes to reducing the demand for care and to the movement towards appropriate care. The goal is also to increase awareness of environmental aspects of medication among all people who use medication
.What do you notice about this campaign in pharmacy?
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We have digital and paper leaflets on this topic available.
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In the pharmacy, you'll find messages on our TV screens about how you can help.
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Home doctors and pharmacists are teaming up to pay more attention to sustainability; this could include screens in your doctor's waiting room with information.
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We place a special return box in the pharmacy. Here you can hand in medications you no longer use.
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We take care to avoid wasting medication. In some cases, we give less than the doctor prescribes, and we discuss whether some medications can be replaced with other medications that are less bad for the environment with your doctor (this applies to certain inhalers such as aerosols).
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We pay attention to stopping and phasing out medications such as antacids, antidepressants, opiates, benzodiazepines (sleeping aids).
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Further focus is on adherence: use as directed by the physician.
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And focus on lifestyle interventions.
What can you do?
- Bring your leftover medications back to the pharmacy instead of in the trash or down the toilet when you no longer need medications. This way, these medications do not end up in the environment.
- Finish your therapy. It is important to finish a course of antibiotics, for example. Not only does this prevent waste, it also helps ensure proper action.
Together we're making healthcare more sustainable!
With your help, we can make sure that drug residues don't end up in nature and that we reduce waste. Ask us for more information on what you can do.
