Beyond the Bottle: 25 Years of Pharmaceutical Stewardship in Canada

VANCOUVER, BC – November 19, 2025

A Legacy of Responsible Disposal

The Health Products Stewardship Association (HPSA) is celebrating 25 years of operation, marking a significant milestone in the responsible management of pharmaceutical waste across Canada. Founded in 1999, the non-profit organization, funded by over 188 pharmaceutical producers, has quietly become a critical component of environmental protection and public safety, collecting and disposing of over 5.5 million kilograms of medications and 4 million kilograms of medical sharps. This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of past achievements, but also a timely reminder of the growing challenges posed by pharmaceutical waste and the need for continued innovation in stewardship practices.

The Unseen Environmental Cost

For decades, the focus on healthcare waste largely centered on sharps and hospital byproducts. However, the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals themselves is increasingly coming into focus. Unused or expired medications disposed of improperly – flushed down toilets or thrown in the trash – can leach into waterways, contaminate soil, and disrupt ecosystems. “The persistence of pharmaceutical compounds in the environment is a growing concern,” says one environmental scientist. “Even low concentrations can have subtle but significant effects on aquatic life, potentially altering behaviour, reproduction, and overall ecosystem health.”

The scale of the problem is considerable. While a definitive national figure for pharmaceutical waste remains elusive, evidence points to a substantial flow of these compounds into the environment. Studies have detected pharmaceutical residues in rivers, lakes, and even drinking water sources. The HPSA and similar programs play a vital role in intercepting this flow, offering safe and environmentally sound disposal options. The organization utilizes licensed incineration facilities as a primary means of disposal, ensuring that pharmaceutical compounds are destroyed rather than released into the environment.

Extended Producer Responsibility and a Shifting Landscape

HPSA's success story exemplifies the growing trend of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), a framework that shifts the burden of waste management from municipalities to the producers of the products themselves. This model recognizes that producers have a responsibility for the end-of-life management of their products, incentivizing them to design for recyclability, reduce waste, and invest in stewardship programs. “EPR is gaining traction across various industries, and HPSA is a leading example of how it can be effectively implemented,” explains an industry analyst. “By taking responsibility for the collection and disposal of medications, pharmaceutical producers are not only minimizing environmental impact but also demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.”

The organization’s longevity is a testament to the effectiveness of this collaborative approach. Pharmasave, an early supporter of the program, hosted 29 of the original 40 participating pharmacies, and continues to be a key partner, with 44 locations participating in recent ‘Take Back Day’ events. This long-standing relationship highlights the importance of partnerships between industry, healthcare providers, and communities in driving successful stewardship programs.

Addressing Public Safety and the Opioid Crisis

Beyond environmental concerns, HPSA’s programs also contribute to public safety. Unused medications, particularly opioids, pose a risk of misuse, addiction, and accidental overdose. By providing safe disposal options, HPSA helps prevent these medications from falling into the wrong hands. “Offering convenient and confidential disposal routes is crucial in addressing the opioid crisis,” states a public health expert. “It removes temptation, reduces the risk of diversion, and protects families and communities.”

The convenience of drop-off locations at pharmacies like Pharmasave, coupled with public awareness campaigns, has significantly increased participation in HPSA’s programs. Initiatives like ‘Take Back Days’ not only provide a dedicated opportunity for safe disposal but also raise awareness about the importance of responsible medication management. The organization continually works to expand its network of collection sites and improve accessibility for communities across its six operating provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec.

As HPSA looks to the future, it is focused on innovation, expansion, and continued collaboration. Investing in research to improve disposal technologies, exploring new partnerships with healthcare providers, and expanding public awareness campaigns are all key priorities. By building on its 25-year legacy of responsible stewardship, HPSA is poised to play an even greater role in protecting the environment and safeguarding public health for generations to come.