BioPharmaChem industry carbon emissions associated with energy consumption is down 26%, since 2022

• New report shows significant sustainability progress in BioPharma and Chemical industries.
• €150 million invested in renewable technologies by the sector

The biopharmaceutical and chemical sectors have made significant progress toward sectoral sustainability goals over the past three years, despite a 5.8% increase in production and strong employment growth, according to a new report by BioPharmaChem Ireland (BPCI), the Ibec group representing these industries.

The Sustainability Strategy and Responsible Care Report 2025 tracks industry progress in energy, emissions, data, and culture. Between 2022 and 2024, carbon emissions fell by 26%, water use decreased by 2.9%, and energy consumption declined by 4.5%. Renewable sources now supply over two-thirds of the industry's electricity, including on-site generation. While efforts to reduce Scope 3 emissions are ongoing, the report highlights that 53% of sites face challenges in gathering the necessary data.

Commenting on the publication of the report, Brian Killen, Digital Transformation Lead at MSD and BPCI Board member and Sustainability Champion: "BioPharmaChem Ireland is committed to driving sustainability through strategic investments and collaboration. With over €150 million invested in renewable technologies, we’re not only reducing carbon emissions but also advancing energy efficiency. With a strong emphasis on renewables, over the next three years, nearly half of BPCI member companies will invest in photovoltaic technology, and 30% will invest in heat-pump technology. Our focus on reducing Scope 3 emissions and fostering a sustainability-driven culture will help position Ireland as a global leader in sustainable biopharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing, all while continuing to deliver life-saving medicines worldwide.

Michael Kilkelly, Senior Executive Environmental, Health and Safety at BPCI, concluded "Through our Responsible Care initiative, BioPharmaChem Ireland continues to lead by example in environmental performance. This year, we achieved an impressive 96% participation rate, with 48 of our relevant member companies reporting on key sustainability indicators. This high level of engagement reflects our sector’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and collaboration. Decarbonisation efforts under scope 1 and 2, although very advanced, face significant challenges relating to grid capacity, reliability of supply and access to affordable renewable sourced electricity.

Joyce Fitzharris, President of SK pharmteco, Small Molecule, Europe and Chairperson of BPCI, said: “The BioPharmaChem sector in Ireland has long been a vital contributor to economic growth, driven by a pro-business climate and a highly skilled workforce. As we transition to a carbon-neutral society, our sector’s commitment to sustainability is more crucial than ever. Our industry is energy-intensive yet essential for improving global health. It’s vital that we continue to make impressive strides toward sustainability while maintaining our role as a global leader in manufacturing life-saving medicines”

The report, while acknowledging the progress made to date, calls on the Government to further improve competitiveness in Ireland by improving the capacity and reliability of the electricity grid, supporting greater availability of grid storage solutions, improved smart grid systems for better energy management, and streamlined regulatory and planning approval processes for renewable energy projects.