Pharma firms see climate as supply risk
A recent survey reveals that a vast majority of pharmaceutical firms in the UK and G7 nations anticipate growing climate-induced challenges in their supply chains. The British Standards Institution (BSI) reports that 87% of these companies foresee increased disruptions, highlighting a shift in perception where climate risks are now integral to strategic business planning.
Commitment to net-zero goals remains strong, with 96% of respondents aligning with national targets. Notably, 37% plan to boost investment in net-zero projects within the year, reflecting a dedication to curbing emissions across manufacturing, distribution, and product usage.
Concerns about the long-term financial and operational impacts of climate unpreparedness are widespread, with 88% of industry leaders expressing worry. Furthermore, 78% view their net-zero initiatives as vital for future resilience, showing the integration of sustainability into risk management strategies.
For 71% of participants, net-zero pledges are seen as inherently beneficial to business, transcending political fluctuations. Additionally, 83% acknowledge the influence of customer demands, particularly from healthcare providers and patients advocating for eco-friendly medications.
As the focus transitions from setting goals to executing them, BSI emphasizes the necessity for standardized methods to assess the environmental footprint of pharmaceuticals throughout their lifecycle. The PAS 2090 specification offers a structured approach for such assessments, guiding companies in quantifying emissions from raw material sourcing to product disposal.
Industry Perspective
Courtney Soulsby, BSI’s Healthcare Development Director, notes a paradigm shift in how the industry approaches sustainability. “Rather than treating sustainability as a standalone objective, many now see climate action as essential to protecting future business resilience,” she explained.
Soulsby further highlights the role of PAS 2090 in addressing the complexity of measuring environmental impact across the pharmaceutical sector. This standard aims to provide a unified framework for reporting and decision-making, enabling companies to pinpoint areas for improvement and align with both regulatory requirements and market expectations.
