SCHOTT Pharma, a leading provider of drug containment and delivery systems, is intensifying its climate action following the validation of the SCHOTT Group's updated science-based climate targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The revised framework, which applies to the entire group including SCHOTT Pharma, introduces a new absolute Scope 3 emissions reduction target while maintaining the existing Scope 1 and 2 goals. This strategic shift underscores the company's commitment to addressing the most significant sources of emissions across its value chain.
The updated targets, validated at the group level, commit to reducing absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 46.2% by fiscal year 2030, compared to a 2019 baseline. Additionally, the group now targets a 27.5% reduction in Scope 3 emissions from key categories with the highest climate impact, including purchased goods and services, fuel- and energy-related activities, and the processing of sold products. By focusing on absolute reductions, SCHOTT Pharma aims to prioritize measures based on their potential to lower emissions, moving beyond supplier commitments to drive concrete improvements in products and processes.
Reinhard Mayer, CFO of SCHOTT Pharma, emphasized the importance of this evolution: "While our commitment to climate action remains unchanged, the updated Scope 3 emissions target enables us to prioritize actions in a more impact-oriented way and focus on the emission reductions that matter most across our value chain." The company believes that climate targets should evolve with scientific advancements and international standards, and the SBTi validation confirms alignment with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
As part of its decarbonization strategy, SCHOTT Pharma has been sourcing Energy Attribute Certificates from renewable energies for its global manufacturing network since 2021. The company continues to enhance energy efficiency and integrate innovative technologies. For instance, at its Swiss site, SCHOTT Pharma replaced conventional distillation for Water for Injection (WFI) generation with an advanced membrane-based system, reducing natural gas reliance and improving water efficiency from 70% to over 90% while maintaining pharmaceutical quality standards.
Addressing emissions from purchased goods is crucial, particularly for glass-based products, where tubing production represents a significant share of the carbon footprint. Innovations in low-emission melting technologies within the SCHOTT Group's tubing business are expected to reduce future Scope 3.1 emissions. SCHOTT Pharma also evaluates suppliers' climate commitments and renewable electricity sourcing, and participates in initiatives like Energize and Alliance to Zero to support decarbonization across the healthcare value chain.
With the validation of the new targets, the group has discontinued its previous internal goal of "climate neutral by 2030," which focused solely on Scope 1 and 2 and relied on compensation. The new science-based approach prioritizes direct emission reductions and aligns with global climate objectives. SCHOTT Pharma remains dedicated to integrating sustainability into its operations and value chain, ensuring that its growth is accompanied by responsible environmental stewardship.
For more details on SCHOTT Pharma's sustainability efforts, visit their climate action page.
