Pharmaceutical Products and Medical Sharps - Overview

The Government of New Brunswick has amended the Designated Materials Regulation under the Clean Environment Act to establish an Extended Producer Responsibility program for pharmaceutical products and medical sharps in New Brunswick. The Regulation, dated October 24, 2022, sets out the requirements for the program.

As the agency responsible for designated materials in New Brunswick, Recycle NB will oversee the pharmaceutical products and medical sharps program.

Under the Regulation, a brand owner must hold a valid registration with Recycle NB to sell, offer for sale or distribute pharmaceutical products and medical sharps in New Brunswick. Brand owners are required to register with Recycle NB within 120 days of the Regulation (February 21, 2023).

Brand owners may also choose a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) to operate the program on their behalf. The PRO will be required to develop a stewardship plan for the collection and management of pharmaceutical products and medical sharps throughout New Brunswick.

More details about the Designated Materials Regulation can be found here.