The Suffolk County Water Authority will host a Pharmaceutical Take Back Day on Saturday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the SCWA Education Center, 260 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge. This event offers a simple and environmentally responsible way for residents to dispose of unused or expired medications. No sign-up is required—just drive up, drop off your medications, and leave. Note that medical sharps cannot be accepted.
“We are excited to partner with the Suffolk County Police Department to help our customers properly dispose of their pharmaceuticals,” said SCWA Chairman Charles Lefkowitz. “By participating in this event, customers help protect our sole-source aquifer by disposing of medications properly, rather than flushing them, which can harm our water supply. We encourage all Suffolk County residents to join us.”
When medications are flushed down the toilet, they run the risk of contaminating Long Island’s aquifer, which can be a detriment to public health. This event serves as a kickoff to Source Water Protection Week, when water providers bring attention to the importance of safeguarding our natural water sources.
After residents drop off their medications during the Pharmaceutical Take Back Day event, they will be taken by a Suffolk County Police Officer to be safely incinerated, ensuring that these contaminants do not end up in the aquifer. Attendees will also be invited to come into the education center to learn more about what the SCWA does and the importance of protecting precious water sources.
About SCWA:
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.