SCHOTT Pharma, a leading provider of drug containment and delivery systems, has reaffirmed its commitment to science-based climate action following the validation of the SCHOTT Group's updated climate targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The revised targets, which encompass SCHOTT Pharma's operations, introduce a new absolute Scope 3 emissions reduction goal, marking a strategic shift toward more impactful decarbonization across the value chain.
Reinhard Mayer, CFO of SCHOTT Pharma, emphasized the significance of the updated framework: "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." This approach moves beyond supplier commitments to concrete product and process improvements, directing efforts toward the most significant emission sources.
The updated targets, validated by SBTi, maintain the existing Scope 1 and Scope 2 reduction goal of 46.2% by fiscal year 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline. Additionally, they introduce a Scope 3 target of 27.5% absolute reduction over the same period, focusing on categories with the greatest climate impact: purchased goods and services (Scope 3.1), fuel- and energy-related activities (Scope 3.3), and processing of sold products (Scope 3.10). These targets align with the Paris Agreement's goal to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
With this validation, SCHOTT Group and SCHOTT Pharma have discontinued their previous internal goal of "climate neutral by 2030," which only covered Scope 1 and 2 and relied heavily on compensation. The new framework prioritizes absolute emission reductions, reflecting a more rigorous and scientifically grounded approach.
SCHOTT Pharma continues to implement a broad portfolio of decarbonization initiatives. Since 2021, the company has sourced Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) from renewable energies for its global manufacturing network. Energy efficiency improvements are ongoing, including a notable technological upgrade at its Swiss site, where the production of Water for Injection (WFI) has switched from conventional distillation to an advanced membrane-based system. This innovation reduces fuel demand and improves water efficiency from 70% to over 90%, while maintaining compliance with pharmaceutical quality standards.
Collaboration across the value chain remains central to SCHOTT Pharma's strategy. The company works with suppliers and customers on renewable energy sourcing, material efficiency, and circular economy approaches for secondary packaging. Given that pharmaceutical glass tubing production significantly contributes to the carbon footprint of glass-based packaging, innovations in low-emission melting technologies within the SCHOTT Group are critical for reducing Scope 3.1 emissions.
In supplier selection, SCHOTT Pharma evaluates climate targets and renewable electricity sourcing. Through the industry initiative Energize, the company supports suppliers' decarbonization efforts by facilitating access to expertise and renewable power procurement. Additionally, participation in collaborations like the Alliance to Zero helps advance decarbonization across the healthcare value chain.
These efforts underscore SCHOTT Pharma's dedication to integrating sustainability into its core strategy, ensuring that its climate actions are both transparent and effective in reducing emissions where they matter most.
