Bay of Plenty Launches New Zealand’s First Inhaler Recycling Trial
- Holly Grundy
- Jun 11
- 1 min read
The Bay of Plenty is the first region in New Zealand to pilot a programme aimed at recycling metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), in a bid to reduce their environmental impact.
The six month trial, currently underway at selected pharmacies in Tauranga, Kawerau, and Whakatāne, is a partnership between Health New Zealand and sustainability company Gaiatech. It seeks to curb greenhouse gas emissions by diverting pharmaceutical waste from landfills.
MDIs often contain propellant gases that are potent greenhouse contributors. Even when empty, inhalers can retain residual gases that continue to leak into the atmosphere if not properly disposed of.
During the trial, all components of the inhalers including metal, plastic, and leftover gas will be collected and processed.
The gases will be safely broken down, while the remaining materials will be recycled.
“As part of Health New Zealand’s transition to a low-emissions future, every aspect of our operations matters,” says Rick Lomax, Head of Sustainability at Health New Zealand.
“Almost three million MDIs are prescribed in New Zealand each year. Currently, the residual gas in these inhalers is not recovered or destroyed, which means it escapes into the atmosphere and contributes to climate change.”
The trial aims to assess the technical feasibility and logistics of inhaler recycling, with the goal of developing a financially and environmentally sustainable nationwide programme.
Where to Recycle Your Inhalers:
Used MDIs can be returned to the following locations.
Tauranga Inpatient Hospital Pharmacy, Ground Floor, Tauranga Hospital (behind lifts)
Whakatāne Hospital Pharmacy (near café)
Unichem Cherrywood Pharmacy
Pyes Pa Pharmacy
Te Puna Pharmacy
Your Pharmacy, Mount Maunganui
Welcome Bay Pharmacy
Kawerau Pharmacy
Unichem Adamsons Pharmacy, Whakatāne
