Think Before You Flush Medications Down the Drain

It's Earth Day and I sit here trying to think of something clever and witty to write about that hasn't already been said by the many bloggers out there on the net. I find myself challenged for things to say other than "Happy Earth Day and continue doing your part for the sustainability of the planet". Ok, on second thought, I could add to that - we need to do more. I know I've said "Green is not about perfection, its about participation" and I still believe that. But remember those Body Break infomercials by Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod? I think their tag line said it best "partcipACTION".

This past month has been unofficially ear-marked as Earth Month and every news paper, magazine and blogger has been speaking of the merits of the many wonderful things we can do for the planet. With all this publicity (the planet has got a great publicist) its not enough for us to just be informed. But its a start. Knowing where we are is just as important as knowing where we want to be.

Today also launched two new projects that I have been busy working on this past month.

Last night at midnight www.earthapproaved.org went live. EarthApproved is a program I'm working on with Ratiopharm - a generic brand pharmaceutical manufacturer. We are launching a call to action to get people aware of the dangers associated with flushing medications down the drain and throwing them into the waste bin. In recent studies, 80% of water sources, like lakes, rivers and ponds have traces of medications like antibiotics and hormones in them. The same chemicals have been found in some of our drinking water.

"That is why Ratiopharm is proud to be the first generic pharmaceutical manufacturer to launch a national, environmentally responsible program specifically for pharmacists and their patients to reduce their impact on the Earth. This program is called Healthy Earth. Healthy Me. The first phase of this program is a simple and small step: incorporating reusable, recycled bags during your pharmacy experience. We have produced a post-consumer recycled paper bag; a unique MediBag, which is a waterproof, lunch-size bag that can transport and hold prescriptions safely; and finally, a recycled tote bag that is large and durable enough for you to use every day." - from the EarthApproved web site.

Education and tools are a good start, but there is more to come so please stay tuned!

My other project to launch today was a hosting gig on WFN. The World Fishing Network has created a Green show. WFN Green will be aired at the top of every hour after 7pm until midnight for the rest of this week. During the show, I interview professors, tournament fishers and fishing product makers about the benefits of a sustainable approach to the fishing industry as a food source and also as a sport. We discuss tips and new products that are earth friendly. Please check out WFN.TV for broadcast times and more information.

Enjoy the rest of Earth Month! I feel like saying.. I wish every day was Earth Day.

Emmanuel Belliveau

Emmanuel Belliveau, Generation Green
		About the author:
		Emmanuel Belliveau's knack for transforming dated objects into modern classics landed the designer a successful television career. During his 4 years on My Parents House on HGTV, he was known as the handy and handsome designer - often shirtless - who designed and built creative household furnishings from coffee tables to water features for deserving parents. He can hold his own when featuring with world renowned architects on HGTV and Discovery's World's Greenest Homes.
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