Report: Pharmaceutical drugs present in LI drinking water
A new report claims that more than half of Long Island health care facilities flush unused drugs down toilets and sinks. (March 4, 2013)
Environmentalists on contaminated LI waterWOODBURY - Pharmaceutical drugs are showing up in Long Island's drinking water, according to a new report.
Citizens Campaign for the Environment released a report today on how Long Island health care facilities dispose of drugs. The report says more than half of local facilities are flushing unused drugs down toilets and sinks.
According to the report, 28 out of 70 aquifer samples taken tested positive for trace pharmaceuticals.
Environmentalists say it's unlikely that the state will enact a ban on flushing drugs, so they are urging health facilities to voluntarily find other, safer ways to get rid of drugs, such as incineration.
The Naussau-Suffolk Hospital Council says its hospitals' policies are consistent with state law.
For the full news conference on Long Island's water quality, watch the clip to the left or click News 12 Extra on Optimum TV channel 612.
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