Pharmaceutical Waste: What DNR is Doing

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is working with a broad group of stakeholders to identify and evaluate low-cost, environmentally responsible ways to manage their waste pharmaceuticals. This includes supporting local authorities and other interested parties who organize pharmaceutical collections in the short-term, as well as identifying and evaluating potential longer-term solutions.

Regulatory Updates

DNR updated its hazardous waste regulations in August 2006. The new rules are organized to parallel federal regulations and include federal exemptions not previously adopted in Wisconsin. For example, Wisconsin now allows generators of very small amounts of hazardous waste pharmaceuticals to transport them without a license. When that wasn't exempted, the only legal option was to hire a hazardous waste hauling company.

Outreach

DNR is continuing to post and update information on pharmaceutical waste. DNR is also educating businesses and institutions through workshops, written guidance and e-mail. To find out about upcoming events and receive e-mail announcements, non-household generators may contact the DNR medical waste coordinator. Staff at DNR also work with other state agencies who have a vested interest in the issue. For example, DNR staff collaborated with staff at the then-Department of Health and Family Services (subsequently renamed as Department of Health Services, or DHS) to develop medication disposal guidance for nursing homes and for assisted living facilities.

DNR continues to work with its partners at UW Extension, EPA, the Sea Grant Institute and others to provide information and develop educational resources for households. DNR staff provided input to the Department of Health Services (DHS) on its medication disposal guidance (PUB WA1214) [PDF 54KB] for nursing homes and for assisted living facilities. In addition, DNR staff have delivered presentations on pharmaceutical waste issues at several meetings and conferences throughout the state and in Minnesota.

Guidance for Collectors

DNR developed guidance for Collecting Unwanted Household Pharmaceuticals (PUB WA1024) [PDF 184KB] from the public. As noted above, the agency plays an active role in providing information and technical assistance and otherwise supporting local authorities and other interested parties who organize pharmaceutical collections.

Statewide PPCP Workgroup

DNR is a coordinating partner to a statewide Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCP) Workgroup, established by the UW Extension Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center (SHWEC) [exit DNR]. The group is focusing on outreach and education, as well as exploring possibilities for statewide pharmaceutical return systems.

Contact Information

For questions and comments about pharmaceutical waste: what DNR is doing about pharmaceutical waste, please contact:

DNR Waste Materials@Wisconsin.gov