As climate change becomes increasingly urgent, the pharmaceutical industry faces growing expectations to reduce its environmental footprint. While known for its contributions to global health, the sector also carries a significant ecological impact, spanning water use, emissions, waste, land use, and energy consumption. Tackling these challenges requires a shift toward sustainability across the entire value chain, from R&D to manufacturing and packaging.
Greener Supply Chains
The pharmaceutical supply chain involves multiple stages, each offering opportunities for sustainability improvements. In R&D, digital twins and AI-powered simulations reduce the need for resource-heavy physical tests, saving time and cutting emissions. Sourcing is becoming more eco-conscious, with companies turning to plant-based or renewable raw materials over petroleum-based ones. Novartis, for instance, has replaced some fossil-based chemicals with renewable alternatives.
In manufacturing, continuous production processes replace traditional batch operations, reducing energy use and material waste. GSK’s facility in Singapore is a standout example, achieving an over 50% reduction in carbon emissions through continuous manufacturing. Green chemistry, using safer reagents and reducing hazardous byproducts, is gaining ground, too. Pfizer has incorporated solvent-free processes and enzyme-catalyzed reactions, decreasing environmental harm and improving safety.
Optimized packaging design helps reduce waste and transport-related emissions. Companies like Amgen now use lighter, recyclable materials, contributing to lower carbon output.
Water conservation is also a growing priority. Technologies like reverse osmosis and rainwater harvesting allow for effective reuse, as seen in Bristol-Myers Squibb’s facilities.
Transport also plays a key role. Firms like AstraZeneca are switching to electric vehicles and improving logistics efficiency by consolidating shipments and using route optimization software. While effective, these improvements require investment and infrastructure readiness.
Collaboration with suppliers is crucial. Programs like Energize, backed by several pharmaceutical giants, help suppliers transition to renewable energy. Environmental certifications such as ISO14000 and training initiatives reinforce sustainable supply network practices. Waste reduction is another focus area, with companies like Roche implementing solvent recycling systems to minimize industrial waste.
Digital twins are also used in manufacturing to simulate and optimize operations, minimizing waste and improving energy efficiency.
Avertim’s Support Across the Value Chain
To help clients build a more sustainable pharma ecosystem, Avertim offers integrated support across supply chain, manufacturing, and product lifecycle management. Our teams guide clients in implementing digital twins, optimizing supply chains, defining sustainability strategies, and embedding green chemistry into product development. We also assist in the design of sustainable facilities and the setup of control towers to monitor sustainability performance.
On the logistics side, Avertim helps companies develop green transport solutions, enhance routing and planning, and engage suppliers through sustainable procurementprograms. We also work with clients on end-of-life strategies, including take-back programs and recyclable packaging solutions, and support reporting processes to comply with CSRD and obtain certifications such as EcoVadis.
End-of-life solutions include medication take-back programs, which prevent contamination, and recycling initiatives for packaging. Amgen and GSK are already piloting such efforts.
Safe disposal technologies like incineration also help eliminate pharmaceutical residues responsibly.
Sustainable End Products
Green chemistry and continuous manufacturing are central to designing more sustainable pharmaceutical products. Lifecycle assessments (LCAs) ensure environmental impact is considered at every stage, from development to disposal.
End-of-life solutions include medication take-back programs, which prevent contamination, and recycling initiatives for packaging. Amgen and GSK are already piloting such efforts.
Safe disposal technologies like incineration also help eliminate pharmaceutical residues responsibly.
A circular economy mindset, designing products for reuse and recycling, is gaining traction, with consumers increasingly expecting eco-conscious practices.
Avertim assists clients throughout the product lifecycle by conducting LCAs, optimizing product design for sustainability, and setting up effective end-of-life management systems. Our expertise in reporting and certification ensures clients meet regulatory expectations while demonstrating transparency and leadership in sustainability.
Avertim’s Sustainability Service Line
Our dedicated sustainability service line addresses the major challenges pharmaceutical companies face in becoming greener. Our approach is structured around three pillars:
- Strategy and Roadmapping: We help clients define clear sustainability goals, develop action plans, and integrate ESG into business models.
2. Sustainable Product and Process Development: We support greener supply chains, eco-efficient manufacturing processes, and sustainable product lifecycle management.
3. Reporting and Certification: We streamline sustainability reporting and help clients achieve certifications such as EcoVadis and align with CSRD requirements.
By addressing sustainability across supply chains, manufacturing, and product design, the pharmaceutical industry can reduce its environmental impact while maintaining high standards of safety and efficacy. Despite the regulatory and operational complexities, a growing push from stakeholders, consumers, regulators, and payers, makes sustainability not just a compliance issue, but a competitive advantage. As expectations grow, companies that take decisive, strategic action will be better positioned to lead in the era of green healthcare.
Avertim stands ready to guide this transition, combining industry expertise with actionable strategies to help pharma clients become pioneers in sustainable innovation.
