UNEP Report on Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines

In March 2026, the United Nations Environment Programme released a report titled “Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines: A One Health Approach for National Systems”.

  • The report warns that the improper disposal of medicines poses serious risks to both environmental and public health, and calls for stronger national systems to address the problem.

Key Highlights: Risk Associated with Improper Medicine Disposal

Environmental Risks

  • Improper disposal contributes to antimicrobial resistance, endocrine disruption, and ecosystem toxicity.

High Wastage Rates

  • Globally, nearly 50% of household medicines eventually become waste.

Economic impact

  • The unused medicine management market is projected to reach US$2.54 billion by 2032.

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