Drugs and Bugs: Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment
James N. Jensen, Professor, Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering
June 24, 2009
Every day, tons of over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs are consumed by the American public. Personal care products, such as deodorants, soaps, & shampoos, are used and washed off. What happens to the pills and potions, capsules and creams? Most of the drugs and personal care products end up in the wastewater collection system. Some of the active ingredients are removed at the wastewater treatment plant, but others are discharged to the environment and, in some cases, to our drinking water. Dr. Jensen presents a travelogue through the urban water system, from swallowing the pill through the wastewater system and back to the tap. Examples of drugs and personal care products will be used to illustrate potential environmental and public health impacts.
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