| Cutting waste is key to protecting the | | | | facilitate recycling. Used syringes are usually |
| environment. | | | | heated, killing the germs and melting the plastic, |
| In the case of medical waste, recycling is all the | | | | which is then disposed of. The remaining metal is |
| more important--for the health of waste | | | | also melted, yielding aluminum and trace amounts |
| collectors and for the planet. | | | | of silver to be reused over and over again. |
| One concern for users of injectable medications is | | | | Sharps Containers are available at most drug |
| the proper disposal of syringes. The best option | | | | stores as well as online. When purchasing a |
| for disposing of needles is in a Sharps Container. | | | | Sharps Container, buyers should inquire about to |
| The bright red plastic container is unique in that it | | | | return them. Pharmacies, doctors' offices and |
| is meant for home use, and postage to a medical | | | | hospitals are typical drop-off sites--but call ahead, |
| waste facility is pre-paid. You need only to | | | | some sites charge a small recycling fee. |
| unscrew the needles from the syringes and place | | | | Check with your local disposal to site to see if |
| them in the container. Once the Sharps Container | | | | their medical processor recycles. For more |
| is full, you can seal it in the box and drop it off in | | | | information—or to inquire about other types of |
| any mail receptacle. | | | | medical waste—The U.S. Environmental |
| While there are other approved ways to dispose | | | | Protection Agency runs a helpful web site which |
| of syringes, Sharps Containers are designed to | | | | includes resources for the state where you live. |