Partnership doubles medicinal blister pack recycling

Blooms The Chemist has doubled the number of blister packs recycled across its pharmacy network to 20 million in the past 12 months, thanks to its partnership with Pharmacycle.

Pharmacycle is an end-to-end recycling program with specialised technology to divert medicinal blister pack waste that cannot be put in yellow bins for kerbside recycling.

Launching the initiative nationwide in November 2022, Blooms The Chemist has helped successfully recover over 30,000 kg of aluminium and plastic from recycled blister packs.

This was also made possible due to continued support from key sponsors including Gaviscon, Nurofen and Strepsils.

“Waste is a collective issue, and while we’re committed to doing our part as a business, we know that real impact comes through collaboration,” said Blooms The Chemist’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer Pamela Bishop. “Every blister pack recycled represents someone choosing a healthier planet. Reaching the 20 million milestone is a testament to our customers and our people, and we’re just getting started.

“This initiative reflects Blooms’ commitment to responsible business practices. By reducing waste, we’re supporting a healthier planet and healthier people, in line with our purpose to build a future where everyone, everywhere has access to good health and wellbeing. We’re proud of our partnership with Pharmacycle and Reckitt, proving that collaboration can drive meaningful change.”

Pharmacycle’s Account Manager for Blooms The Chemist, Ursi Kernan, said: “With millions of blister packs used by Australians each year, it’s fundamental that we’re correctly recycling these materials. As a result of our streamlined and thorough processes, we’re proud to say that 100% of materials collected are diverted from landfill.

“As a voluntary program that relies on the support from participating pharmacies, industry sponsors and government organisations, we are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Blooms The Chemist. By achieving this major milestone, Blooms The Chemist’s ongoing dedication and passion is sure to inspire others to follow suit.”

Empty medicinal blister packs can be easily recycled through Pharmacycle’s program by visiting a local Blooms The Chemist pharmacy.

Image credit: iStock.com/Andrei Berezovskii