More than 309 kilograms of used plastic blister packs have avoided landfill since the launch of Ararat Rural City Council’s Pharmacycle program in 2022.

The result means more than 206,000 blister packs have instead been recycled through local drop-off points and participating pharmacies, helping to build a circular economy in the region.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said in the current financial year alone, the council’s collection partners had diverted 245 kilograms – or more than 160,000 blister packs – from landfill, demonstrating strong community support for sustainable recycling solutions.

Dr Harrison said the results showed what the community could achieve by embracing small, practical changes.

“Every blister pack that’s recycled instead of sent to landfill helps reduce waste and supports a more sustainable future for our region,” he said.

“It’s encouraging to see local residents and businesses working together to make a measurable difference, and programs like Pharmacycle make that action simple, local and effective.”

Ararat’s participating pharmacy, Blooms The Chemist Ararat, provides a free local drop-off point for residents to recycle their empty medicine packaging.

There is also a drop off point at the council’s customer service centre.

Dr Harrison said Earth Day on April 22 highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility, with the council encouraging more residents to get involved by dropping off their used blister packs for recycling this year.

“These results are something we can all take pride in,” he said.

“As a community, Ararat is showing that small collective actions really do add up to significant environmental outcomes.”

Residents can find more information about the Pharmacycle program at www.pharmacycle.com.au.

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