What happens to hypodermic needles once they've been discarded? All too often, they end up at the beach, on our streets, and in our waterways, posing a threat to humans, animals, and habitats. Why? Because practical advice about what to do with medical waste is sorely lacking, even in a major city like Los Angeles.

Fortunately, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors is now considering a proposal that would create a take-back program at convenient locations for used syringes, expired medication and other potential threats. But this common-sense measure is getting pushback from the big pharmaceutical companies.

Add your name to this petition to show your support for an ordinance that asks producers to take some responsibility for the hazardous waste they create.

A syringe and medication take-back program like this would require pharmaceutical companies to make a modest investment of just 1 cent for every $10 in prescription drugs sold. We think it's a small price to pay for an industry with one of the biggest profit margins in the country.

We urge you to support this smart, common-sense step toward cleaner beaches – and safer beachgoers.