OBJECTIVES:

The pharmaceutical industry develops and discovers new treatments to improve patient outcomes. However, improper disposal of unused and expired medicines, as well as pollutants from manufacturing, contribute to a sizeable carbon footprint. This research reports on the pharmaceutical industry’s carbon footprint and mitigation measures they are taking to tackle climate change.

METHODS:

The authors conducted a targeted review of the published literature on pharmaceutical companies’ environmental impact and their mitigation efforts, including peer-reviewed scientific literature, reports on initiatives by relevant stakeholders, and government reports.

RESULTS:

Findings were obtained from 14 articles, including multiple analyses involving the 20 largest pharmaceutical companies. Currently, 4.4% of carbon emissions (CEs) globally are attributed to healthcare, with approximately 71% of those CEs stemming from the supply chain, including production and transport of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. In 2019, the industry produced approximately 49 tons of CO₂ equivalent for every $1 million they generated. Many pharmaceutical companies are striving for carbon neutrality by investing in renewable energy, issuing sustainability bonds, and establishing formal green standards of procedure, such as proper disposal of equipment used in research. Pharmaceutical companies are using a three-pronged approach to reduce CEs: direct, indirect, and value-chain. For example, continuous manufacturing instead of batch manufacturing has been effective in curbing CEs by almost 70%. Efficient packaging of materials can reduce space in transport vehicles by 60%, therefore reducing CEs. Investing in eco-friendly options has long-term financial benefits because of reduced waste and more efficient use of resources.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly aware of their carbon footprint and are implementing combative measures accordingly. Industry efforts to lessen environmental impact are expanding from CE reduction to more holistic commitments, such as pledging greener processes and committing to sustainable practices. The coordination of these initiatives to improve sustainability can result in environmental benefits and long-term cost savings.