We can all do our bit to help the environment, and help the NHS pursue a greener agenda, which is why NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin is supporting the change to environmentally friendly inhalers.

Choosing an environmentally friendly inhaler to treat your asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is just one of the ways you can help make a difference.

Pressurised metered dose inhalers (MDIs) contain a gas in a metal canister that you press down into a plastic case to release the medicine into your lungs. The gas is a powerful greenhouse gas, and when released it stays in the air and traps the sun’s heat like glass in a greenhouse. This warms the planet, which is a problem for the climate.

Keeping your asthma or COPD under control with the correct medication is very important. There are some inhalers that are more environmentally friendly than others and can be used as an alternative whilst still controlling your asthma or COPD. These inhalers do not contain a greenhouse gas and are dry powder or soft mist inhalers.

At your next review, why not ask your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist if a dry powder or soft mist inhaler is suitable for you? And always remember to take any unwanted or used inhalers to your local pharmacy, so they can be disposed of appropriately.