New textbook highlights environmental impact of medicines and pathways to sustainable pharmacy

Compiled by the Generation Green task force, the textbook builds on the original Finnish version and explores the environmental consequences of medicine production, use, and disposal, including pharmaceutical residues in ecosystems and resource consumption. It presents current best practices, identifies knowledge gaps, and emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to develop environmentally sustainable medicinal products and medications.

Designed for both newcomers and professionals, the open-access textbook aims to raise awareness among health professionals and policymakers. It was produced with support from the NordForsk for the Nordic University Hub project #85352 NordicPOP, and the University of Helsinki Teachers’ Academy. The original edition in Finnish was supported by the Maj and Tor Nessling Foundation, which funds initiatives for a sustainable future.

“We hope the book will help integrate environmental thinking into everyday practices in the field of pharmacy and beyond,” says Associate Professor Mia Sivén, Vice Dean for Education.

The textbook is freely available in Helda, University of Helsinki Open Repository.