Recupera e Respira: A sustainable pilot model for disposal of inhalers

Abstract

Recupera e Respira, a pilot project launched in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in Italy in 2022, addresses the environmental impact of improper disposal of respiratory inhalers. When these medical devices are disposed of as regular household waste without segregation, they contribute to pollution with aluminum and plastic, and emission of residual hydrofluoroalkane (HFA). In collaboration with Federfarma, the national association representing over 19,000 private pharmacies affiliated with Italy’s National Health Service, and with the support of Assinde, a company specializing in pharmaceutical returns management and the safe disposal of expired or unused medicines, Chiesi Italy suggested and implemented an institutionally approved collection and disposal system for empty inhalers. This initiative achieved a recovery rate of 24.6% over 3 years (calculated from IQVIA sell-out data referring to the Friuli Venezia Giulia region for September 2022 to June 2025), collecting over 111,000 inhalers from regional pharmacies. Proper disposal occurred at certified facilities capable of neutralizing hazardous components at high temperatures. The project highlights the role of pharmacies in educating patients and facilitating sustainable healthcare practices. An increase in recovery rates from 22.6% to 27.3% was observed in the first 2 years of project, with a sightly decrease over the third year. Overall, this study demonstrates the model’s potential scalability, aligning with Chiesi’s net zero goals by 2035. The study highlights how innovative waste management systems can effectively reduce the environmental burden of inhalers and foster public engagement in sustainability.