Why sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry is important

In fact, a recent Informa Markets poll reported a staggering 78% of consumers indicate a desire for pharmaceutical companies to deliver more on sustainability; and to offer a greater degree of transparency as they do so.

But while these opinions are valid – pharmaceutical industry almost doubles that of the automotive sector – it can be daunting for companies to address these issues in real-time.

Fortunately, technological innovations – such as battery storage and low emission power – offer pharmaceutical manufacturers a wealth of options to decarbonise their operations and enjoy the efficiency, environmental and reputational benefits of doing so.

But why is pharmaceutical sustainability so important? And how can it be improved?

The case for pharmaceutical sustainability

The importance of sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry cannot be overstated; especially when considering public reactions to companies who fail to act.

Truly, the potential for reputational damage to companies who are deemed to have neglected to address their emissions can be astronomical, and, as we’ve seen in recent years, possibly even irreparable.

As such, it’s vital that pharmaceutical companies operate in the most environmentally efficient way possible and adopt a variety of sustainable practices; from production to supply chain.

Moreover, the behaviour of larger industries has a demonstrable effect on smaller ones, meaning that by striving for pharmaceutical sustainability, the sector can function as a thought leader, encouraging others to follow suit.

But it’s more than just reputational damage. By adopting more sustainable practices – such as decarbonising wherever possible - the pharmaceutical industry can make a significant dent in its total carbon emissions, contributing to global net-zero targets and protecting the environment from harmful toxins.

How to enhance pharmaceutical sustainability practices

As the global population rises (the latest statistics currently place it at 7.96 billion people) and innovations in healthcare extend people’s lives further than ever before, the need for lifesaving medicines has never been greater.

But this supply and demand creates a paradox of sorts. How do pharmaceutical companies produce medicines that are vital to people’s wellbeing without damaging the planet and adhering to carbon emissions regulation?

It sounds contradictory, but it is possible; and small actions can have a dramatic impact.

Truthfully, the way in which pharmaceutical companies operate – as in, the literal means of production – is a key contributor to harmful emissions. But by focusing on energy efficiency, companies can drastically reduce their carbon footprint.

But how can this be achieved?

Well, energy efficiency may sound like a neat buzz phrase, but it’s a key component of decarbonising operations in a variety of – if not all – sectors.

Essentially, it boils down to strict monitoring of energy usage and wastage - not unlike domestic decarbonisation. For example, by taking advantage of greener power options, such as low-emission generators, pharmaceutical companies can manufacture their essential products safe in the knowledge that they’re doing so in the most environmentally sound way.

And that’s only part of the equation, companies can monitor energy wastage with innovative and finely tuned practices such as remote monitoring ensuring that they’re only using the necessary amount of power, at a necessary time.

Likewise for cooling and heating solutions; each of which are crucial to pharmaceutical manufacturing, but can carry significant emissions debts. But with precise management, they too can be run efficiently and productively.

Truly, sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry has never been more important, but likewise, with the advent of greener, cleaner energy options, sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry has never been more viable.