University of Pittsburgh researchers have found high levels of mercury and estrogen in the fish caught in our three rivers. The research team also found fish that had neither male nor female reproductive organs. Since 2008, the river has filled each summer with levels of contaminants higher than in at least 10 years. Researchers think the chemicals are accumulating in the fish because “vast quantities” of human waste containing pharmaceutical byproducts are running into local rivers from untreated sewage. Many people have gotten into the habit of flushing waste pharmaceuticals down the toilet because it is convenient, low cost, and prevents unintended use or other diversion. There are better options.
The Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC) in partnership with the Southwestern Pennsylvania Household Hazardous Waste Task Force recently held a collection of prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter and veterinary medications. Prescription medications include both controlled and non-controlled substances. This event allowed people to properly disposal of their unwanted medications and to prevent these items from being flushed down a drain. Local municipal wastewater treatment plants are not designed to completely remove the chemicals and compounds found in medications, so some are released directly back into our waterways where they can have an adverse impact on the environment. Recent studies have shown that these chemicals can impact our aquatic environments and even make their way into our drinking water.
The Saturday, October 23rd pharmaceutical collection held at the Mt. Lebanon municipal building brought in over 700 pounds of controlled and non-controlled substances from a total of 228 households. Our waterways are a little safer.
The Task Force with PRC would like to thank our sponsors, supporters, and volunteers for helping to make this collection a huge success! Visit the Task Force's website for notification of the next collection.
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