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Indian pharma industry in its efforts to protect the environment is increasingly making efforts to minimize waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, develop greener manufacturing and implementing green chemistry processes. The industry is also recognizing the importance of sustainable procurement and considering the environmental implications of drug lifecycle from production to disposal.
On the occasion of the World Environment Day observed annually on June 5, this year’s theme is ‘Beat Plastic Pollution.’ Pharma companies in the country are actively working to address plastic pollution by exploring innovative materials and technologies in packaging. The industry is partnering with sustainable packaging innovators, developing biodegradable packaging, and optimizing supply chains to minimize waste. Also, extensive tree plantation and distribution of saplings are undertaken on a regular basis.
Companies from AstraZeneca to Cadilla, Lupin, Dr Reddy’s among others are highly environmentally conscious and fostering innovation to reduce waste and improve efficiency. Also the healthcare sector generates a significant amount of medical waste, which is being managed responsibly to prevent environmental contamination.
In the wake of the recent Union government guidelines on safe disposal of medicines, companies are putting in place practices to reduce the use of plastic packaging, promoting responsible disposal of medications, and minimizing waste generated during manufacturing processes.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, chairperson, Biocon Group stated, “Our company has been integrating sustainability into its core business strategy since its inception. As a Group that is deeply committed to environmental responsibility, we have adopted comprehensive ESG reporting, engaged with rating agencies, and participated in initiatives aligned with the UN SDGs.”
Biocon’s inclusion in the S&P Global ESG Yearbook, for the third consecutive year in 2025, along with our S&P Global ESG score rising from 63 to 69, stands testament to our efforts in embedding sustainable practices throughout our operations, she added.
Pramuch Goel, head of corporate affairs, Syngene International, said, “Indian CRDMOs are increasingly aligning with global environmental goals through initiatives such as solvent recovery, energy optimization, waste minimization, and the transition to paperless workflows via digitization and automation. The adoption of green chemistry principles and integration of renewable energy into operations further reflect their determination to lead responsibly and meet the expectations of clients who seek environmentally conscious partnerships.”
Syngene has taken significant strides to embed sustainability into its operations. At Syngene, we believe that scientific innovation and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand. Over the past year, we sourced 92% of our electricity from renewable sources, reduced freshwater consumption by 64%, and continued to maintain zero waste to landfill across all our campuses, Pramuch Goel told Pharmabiz in an email.
A major milestone was the validation of our near-term greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). We are now working towards a 54.6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2033. We aim to have suppliers covering 81.6% of our Scope 3 emissions adopt SBTi-aligned targets by 2028. As a unique initiative, we have introduced recycled paper products and plantable pens across our Bangalore and Hyderabad campuses, he said.
On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our belief that doing what’s right for the planet also drives long-term business resilience. As we grow, we remain committed to scaling responsibly and creating sustainable value for our clients, communities, and future generations, said the Syngene head of corporate affairs.
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