South East London ICS launches new inhaler recycling project to combat climate change

Pharmacist highlights individual responsibility in climate action through innovative inhaler recycling project

To combat the effects of climate change, the Integrated Care System (ICS) in South East London (SEL) has initiated a pioneering inhaler recycling project.

Supported by NHS England and spanning 20 community pharmacies across the region, the project marks the first nationally-funded pilot of its kind in England, targeting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from improperly disposed inhalers.

The project, which commenced at King’s College Hospital in February 2024, focuses on the recycling of pressurised metered-dose inhalers.

These inhalers, due to their propellant content, contribute significantly to environmental harm, emitting gases equivalent to driving 71.8 miles in a standard petrol car.

Patients are encouraged to return their used or expired inhalers to designated community pharmacies, where they are then forwarded to specialist facilities at Grundon Waste Management for recycling.

This process aims to reclaim and repurpose the harmful gases, aligning with SEL ICS’s Green Plan 2022-2025 objectives to eliminate clinical waste from landfills and minimise the NHS's environmental footprint.

Laura Stevenson, a pharmacist at King’s College Hospital and a key figure in the project, emphasised the critical role of individual actions in mitigating climate impact:

"Medicines make up 25 per cent of the NHS carbon footprint, which is a staggering statistic!"

"The climate crisis is a health crisis, and we need to take decisive action to ensure we minimise our environmental impact; returning your inhaler to your local pharmacy or hospital can play a huge part in this.

"We can reach Net Zero by 2050 with these important actions and we need your help to do it, recycle your inhalers and help us create a greener NHS.”

Dr. Laura-Jane Smith, Consultant Respiratory Physician at King’s College Hospital, highlighted the health implications of climate change, especially for those with respiratory conditions, urging patients to opt for greener inhaler alternatives when possible.

The initiative underscores a collaborative effort involving NHS England, Greener NHS, and various stakeholders within SEL ICS, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and healthcare innovation.

It also includes public engagement through surveys to gather community feedback and enhance participation in the recycling efforts.

This project not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also sets a precedent for sustainable healthcare practices nationwide.