This new year, make it your resolution to return your meds!

VANCOUVER, Jan. 14, 2013 /CNW/ - The new year is a great time for a fresh start - and the perfect time to clean out your medicine cabinet! The BC Pharmacy Association and the Northern Environmental Action Team (NEAT) urge British Columbians to return their old medications to their local pharmacy to protect themselves, their families and the environment.

"We are encouraging everyone to make a new year's resolution to safely dispose of their expired or unused medications," said Ralph Lai, president of the BC Pharmacy Association. "British Columbians can return these medications to pharmacies across the province at no cost."

BC's Medications Return Program ensures safe and effective disposal of old or expired prescription drugs, as well as oral dosage over-the counter medications and natural health products. More information on the program can be found at www.medicationsreturn.ca.

"NEAT is concerned with the overall health of our communities," said Karen Mason-Bennett, Program Coordinator at the Northern Environmental Action Team. "Returning medications to pharmacies is an easy and effective way of ensuring that both our families and our environment stay healthy for the foreseeable future."

The British Columbia Pharmacy Association is a not-for-profit, voluntary, professional association of pharmacists and pharmacies. It represents more than 2,700 pharmacists and almost 800 pharmacies throughout British Columbia.

NEAT is a non-profit group dedicated to helping residents, schools, and businesses live a greener life in northeastern British Columbia. Primarily, NEAT provides environmental education, but also assists organizations and institutions develop strategic plans to reduce waste and conserve resources.

SOURCE: British Columbia Pharmacy Association

To interview a pharmacist in your local area, please contact Elise Riedlinger, BCPhA: 604.269.2866 / [email protected]

To interview a spokesperson at NEAT, contact Tammy Hrab, Communication Coordinator: 250-785-6328 [email protected]