Climate change and pharmaceutical manufacturing: impact and solutions

In this article, we will explore the main ways climate change affects pharmaceutical manufacturing and the innovative solutions that can help the industry adapt while maintaining its commitment to global health.

The impact of climate change on pharmaceutical manufacturing

The pharmaceutical manufacturing sector faces significant challenges due to climate change. Below are the primary factors contributing to these impacts:

• High emissions impact: The healthcare sector accounts for approximately 5 percent of global emissions[1][2], with pharmaceutical use contributing 10 to 55 percent of national health system footprints such as the UK, the United States and across Europe [3]. Manufacturing processes, particularly for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), are energy-intensive. In some product specific life cycle assessments, APIs have been shown to account for up to 96 percent of a drug’s carbon footprint per unit [4].
• Transport: The supply chain itself accounts for an overwhelming proportion of the carbon emissions created by the pharmaceutical industry. Up to 88 percent of emissions for private pharmaceutical companies stem from their supply chains [5].
• Water and waste issues: Pharmaceutical production is water-intensive, placing strain on local resources. Improper disposal of pharmaceuticals can also lead to significant environmental pollution[6].
• Petrochemical reliance: Approximately 99 percent of raw materials and reagents used in pharmaceutical manufacturing are derived from petrochemicals, contributing to emissions and pollution [7].
• Logistical challenges: Extreme weather events disrupt transportation networks, delay shipments, and strain cold chain systems, increasing the risk of product spoilage.

"The pharmaceutical industry is at a crossroads. Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a healthcare challenge. Addressing this requires a collective effort to build resilience while reducing environmental impact."

Paula Pulsoni, Vice President, Sales & Services, World Courier

Industry momentum toward science-based climate targets

Evidence suggests that sustainability commitments across pharmaceutical manufacturing are moving from intention toward action. A snapshot of Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) data for the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and life sciences sector shows a marked increase in near-term net-zero targets being set in 2024 and 2025, alongside rising commitment volumes in the same period.

 

Notably, near-term targets aligned to a 1.5°C pathway now dominate recent submissions, reflecting a clear shift toward more ambitious climate alignment across the industry. While this dataset represents a point in time view rather than a full historical timeline, it signals growing momentum toward formal, science-based climate targets in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Sustainable solutions to combat climate change in pharmaceutical manufacturing

Despite these challenges, the pharmaceutical industry has the tools and expertise to implement sustainable solutions. Below are some of the most impactful strategies:

• Transitioning to renewable energy: By electrifying production processes, improving energy efficiency, and adopting photovoltaic (PV) solar panelling, pharmaceutical companies can significantly reduce emissions.
• Green chemistry and manufacturing: Applying green chemistry principles, such as biocatalysis and enzymatic processes, can reduce the environmental impact of API production. Local or regional API manufacturing and lifecycle assessments (LCAs) also play a critical role in sustainability.
• Resilient supply chains: Diversifying and regionalizing supply chains, partnering with certified sustainable suppliers, and investing in digital supply chain tracking can enhance resilience.
• Water and waste management: Implementing closed-loop water systems, advanced water treatment technologies, and zero liquid discharge (ZLD) systems can minimize water usage and pollution. Waste minimization strategies, such as solvent recovery and material reuse, are equally critical.
• Responsible packaging solutions: Packaging solutions — such as those comprised of biodegradable materials and reusable containers — reduce waste and emissions. Discover the environmental impact of specialty logistics packaging. World Courier is developing reusable packaging options for dry ice shipments in concerted efforts to curb waste relating to deep-frozen shipping.
• Reducing petrochemical reliance: Investing in bio-based and renewable feedstocks, green solvents, and synthetic biology can help reduce the industry’s dependence on petrochemicals.

Many pharmaceutical companies have already committed to ambitious sustainability goals. For example, World Courier actively promotes corporate responsibility through its innovative logistics solutions and commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.

As part of Cencora, we are also committed to their fully verified, science-based target to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions 54.6 percent by fiscal year 2032 from a fiscal year 2019 base year. Find out how World Courier promotes global sustainability.

“Sustainability is no longer optional. By transitioning to low emission vehicles, improving route planning, and optimizing transport networks, pharmaceutical supply chains can significantly reduce logistics related emissions while continuing to prioritize patient care.”

Paula Pulsoni, Vice President, Sales & Services, World Courier

Looking to the future

 

Climate change presents a formidable challenge to the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, but it also offers an opportunity for innovation and leadership. By adopting sustainable practices, investing in responsible technologies, and building resilient supply chains, the industry can mitigate its environmental impact while continuing to deliver life-saving therapies to patients worldwide.

At World Courier, we are committed to supporting our partners in navigating these challenges. Through our expertise in specialty logistics, we ensure that critical medicines reach patients safely and efficiently, even in the face of climate-related disruptions.