7 Ways to Increase Pharmaceutical Sustainability

September 05, 2023 - The pharmaceutical sector is undeniably indispensable in the global landscape of essential medications. However, beneath the surface lies a harsh reality of environmental devastation and unsustainable practices. A 2019 Lancet report paints a grim picture for the future of healthcare: a potential net increase of 529,000 adult deaths per year by 2050 due to climate change.  

The pharmaceutical industry alone is responsible for approximately 52 megatons of CO₂ equivalent emissions annually, stemming solely from its direct operations. This calculation, however, does not begin to cover the additional indirect energy-related emissions arising from the intricacies of its supply chain — from the transportation of vital medicines to the energy demands of distribution facilities for lighting and refrigeration. 

The following article provides seven sustainable ways to mitigate the pharmaceutical industry's ecological footprint and ensure its enduring vitality. 

Green Chemistry 

In the quest for a healthier and more sustainable world, the pharmaceutical and drug development industries are increasingly turning to green chemistry. This innovative approach is reshaping how essential medications are created, bringing many benefits that align with sustainability initiatives. 

At its core, green chemistry is a transformative philosophy that champions efficiency, safety, and environmental consciousness to dramatically reduce waste, curb energy consumption, and minimize the use of hazardous chemicals by harnessing the potential of safer, more sustainable chemical reactions and processes. 

With green chemistry, pharmaceutical companies can prioritize eco-friendly synthesis methods, tap into renewable resources, and significantly reduce the production of harmful byproducts. By integrating these principles, pharmaceutical giants such as Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson are rewriting the rules of drug manufacturing, reducing carbon footprints, and making a dent in their environmental impact. 

Green chemistry also ushers in a new era of pharmaceutical products that are safer for human health and biodegradable, alleviating concerns about persistent environmental pollution. 

Embracing green chemistry principles aligns seamlessly with corporate social responsibility, paves the way for long-term sustainability goals, and elevates the pharmaceutical industry's ethical and environmental standing.  

Waste Minimization 

Central to the concept of waste minimization is the optimization of production processes. This entails minimizing the generation of hazardous byproducts and reducing unused materials, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and safer environment. These byproducts and leftover materials often wreak havoc on ecosystems and contribute to pollution.  

Additionally, streamlining purification and synthesis methods further reduces waste, while recycling and reusing specific materials actively diminish the demand for raw resources and limit the disposal of harmful substances. Research estimates that with every 2.2 lbs of drug manufactured, a staggering 220.46 lbs of waste is produced.  

Healthcare facilities responsible for billions of dollars in discarded unused medications each year must address this issue, as hospitals alone contribute over $3 billion, with long-term care facilities adding another $2 billion to the problem.  

Fortunately, prescription drug donation and reuse programs, referred to as drug repositories, are emerging as viable solutions. These initiatives not only mitigate waste but also extend a helping hand to those in need. By collecting and redistributing unused prescription drugs, these programs ensure that valuable medications are not squandered while underserved populations gain access to vital treatments. By embracing waste minimization strategies and reevaluating how unused medications are managed, organizations can play a significant role in shaping a healthier future for humanity and the planet. 

Energy Efficiency 

Investing in energy-efficient technologies and practices is essential for reducing the pharmaceutical industry's carbon footprint. The United States pharmaceutical sector consumes approximately $1 billion of energy annually, affecting product quality and profitability. Major pharmaceutical companies are expected to lower production costs while maintaining quality standards to address energy consumption. 

Energy efficiency is pivotal in advancing sustainability within pharmaceutical and drug development. With complex research, manufacturing, and distribution processes, these industries can substantially diminish their environmental impact by embracing energy-efficient practices. This includes optimizing manufacturing processes, integrating green technologies, and adopting renewable energy sources. By doing so, they can reduce operational expenses, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and decrease dependence on non-renewable resources. These energy efficiency investments enhance long-term viability and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for pharmaceutical companies. 

The pharmaceutical industry's unique energy demands, driven by precise environmental conditions, make it highly energy intensive. This demand is more significant during the conversion phase, where raw materials are transformed into pharmaceutical products. Labs, research facilities, and manufacturing sites are significant energy consumers, often requiring double or triple the energy of typical office spaces.  

Consequently, the industry faces challenges balancing product quality and cost reduction. Improved energy efficiency emerges as a top strategy, leading to enhanced process efficiency, higher product quality, and increased productivity and profitability. To achieve both environmental sustainability and economic viability, pharmaceutical plant managers are exploring advanced energy management solutions, including alternative fuels, demand response measures, reliability enhancements, and on-site generation methods. 

For instance, Pfizer exemplified its commitment to sustainability by constructing a highly energy-efficient research and development facility in Chesterfield, Missouri, in 2019. This state-of-the-art laboratory was developed per Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) sustainability certification standards and incorporates sustainable building designs, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and renewable energy sources.  

Additionally, in 2021, Vesper Energy announced that Pfizer entered a 15-year virtual power purchase agreement for a minimum of 310 megawatts of solar energy. This agreement will efficiently fulfill all the anticipated energy requirements for Pfizer's operations in North America. 

Sustainable Sourcing 

Promoting sustainable raw materials and ingredients in pharmaceutical manufacturing is a crucial step toward greater environmental responsibility. This involves responsibly obtaining natural compounds and seeking alternatives to non-renewable resources. 

Sustainable sourcing is vital in advancing sustainability in pharmaceutical and drug development. By embracing these practices, companies can significantly diminish their environmental impact while contributing to the long-term ecological balance.  

Procuring raw materials from sustainable and responsibly managed suppliers helps preserve biodiversity and natural ecosystems. Furthermore, sustainable sourcing reduces the carbon footprint linked to transportation and production processes, leading to decreased greenhouse gas emissions. Businesses can also bolster social sustainability and support local communities by championing fair trade and ethical labor practices throughout the supply chain.  

For example, Novartis sets specific environmental sustainability standards for its suppliers, partnering with those who demonstrate responsible sourcing practices to mitigate their environmental footprints. This commitment propels progress toward more environmentally friendly approaches, all while sustaining advancements in global health. In the end, the prioritization of sustainable sourcing serves the environment and establishes an ongoing cycle of conscientious consumption. 

Green Packaging 

Green packaging can improve sustainability within the pharmaceutical and drug development industries. These industries can significantly reduce their environmental impact by adopting sustainable packaging solutions. Using recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable materials can substantially diminish the environmental impact of drug packaging. Sustainable packaging also ensures the preservation of pharmaceutical products' integrity, maintaining their efficacy and safety while reducing the need for excessive packaging. 

Biodegradable and compostable materials can replace traditional single-use plastic packaging, decreasing the amount of waste generated and its harmful effects on ecosystems. Meanwhile, lightweight and recyclable materials can lower transportation emissions and energy consumption during distribution.  

So far this year, a staggering number of prescriptions, 4.83 billion, have already been dispensed, resulting in a surplus of empty medicine containers and disposable packaging materials. The pharmaceutical industry alone is responsible for  300 million tons of plastic waste annually, with 50% of this plastic intended for single-use purposes. 

The issue of non-sustainable prescription packaging demands urgent and effective action. Relying solely on recyclability as a solution is no longer viable, particularly when just 5% of 51 million tons of US plastic waste was recycled in 2021. Furthermore, a substantial 85% of waste originating from healthcare operations, encompassing pharmaceutical and medical equipment packaging, is non-hazardous. Therefore, there exists considerable potential for substitution with eco-friendly and reusable alternatives, offering substantial cost-saving opportunities. 

Addressing this issue requires a holistic approach, considering the entire product lifecycle rather than solely focusing on end-of-life management. Prioritizing eco-designed products that encompass responsible raw material sourcing, energy-efficient manufacturing, and proper end-of-life management is paramount. 

Embracing green packaging practices enables organizations to contribute to a cleaner environment, showcase their commitment to sustainability, and serve as role models for other sectors. A 2022 report reveals that sustainable packaging solutions now comprise  25% of the primary pharmaceutical packaging market, reflecting a growing trend among major pharmaceutical companies in actively pursuing sustainable packaging innovations to substantially reduce their environmental impact. 

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) 

Implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs can revolutionize sustainability in pharmaceuticals. EPR encourages companies to take full responsibility for their products' lifecycle, from production to post-consumer waste management.  

A real-world application of EPR can be seen in the European Union's pharmaceutical EPR initiatives. These programs drive companies to design eco-friendly drugs and packaging, invest in sustainable manufacturing, and develop efficient recycling and disposal systems. By incentivizing environmentally conscious practices, EPR stimulates innovation and fosters a greener culture within the industry. 

Collaboration and Information Sharing 

Fostering collaboration among pharmaceutical firms, researchers, and regulatory agencies is central to industry-wide sustainability. This collaborative approach creates a culture of continuous improvement, expediting the adoption of eco-friendly practices. 

In a comprehensive industry-wide initiative, a primary focus is placed on fostering transparent communication and collaboration to advance sustainability within the pharmaceutical sector. Stakeholders, including pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, regulatory bodies, and NGOs, can share insights on sustainable practices, research outcomes, and innovative technologies. This collaborative endeavor catalyzes the creation of environmentally responsible processes and products.  

Moreover, this collective effort aids in identifying potential environmental risks and promoting best practices for reducing the ecological impact associated with drug development and manufacturing. Sharing data about pharmaceutical products' environmental footprint equips decision-makers with the knowledge required to make informed choices, leading to the design of greener drugs and the implementation of more effective waste management strategies. Ultimately, these collaborative initiatives align the progress of pharmaceutical advancements with the principles of environmental stewardship and society's overall well-being. 

The pharmaceutical industry can make substantial environmental contributions by embracing sustainable strategies such as green chemistry, waste reduction, energy efficiency, responsible sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and EPR while ensuring global access to vital medications. Real-world examples illustrate the industry's capacity to navigate sustainability through innovation, collaboration, and a firm commitment to environmental responsibility.