The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has flagged serious concerns about improper disposal of medical waste in hospitals across the Volta Region. Sharps and blood-contaminated items are being discarded in bins meant for non-infectious waste, creating risks to public health and the environment.
This concern was highlighted during a stakeholder meeting on the Take Back Unwanted Medicines (TBUM) project, led by Dr. Cornelius Dodoo. The TBUM initiative, supported by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and global partners, focuses on safe disposal of unused medicines and reducing antimicrobial resistance.
Fifteen bins have been distributed to hospitals in the region to support proper waste segregation. Stakeholders expressed optimism that these measures would improve waste management and enhance public health outcomes.
