Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Sourcing Renewables  -  May 22, 2023

Viatris Reports Progress on Building Sustainable Access to Medicine

Viatris Inc., a global healthcare company, is reporting on progress in building sustainable access to medicine through initiatives that include emissions reduction targets and expanded use of renewable energy.

 Specifically, the company committed to reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 42% by 2030 to reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions by 25%. It also obtained validation of its GHG reduction targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which classified its ambition as aligned with the 1.5°C trajectory.

The company’s emission reduction strategy features three parts: increasing renewable electricity use, enhancing operational efficiencies, and using upgraded equipment and alternative fuels.

Viatris has accelerated its sustainability actions by initiating a power purchase agreement (PPA) at its India facility, enabling it to source 34% of its electricity from renewable sources; commissioning 3,200 kWp ground-mounted solar panels, which will generate 13 million kWh of renewable electricity; and installing a 99 kW solar PV system at its Australia site, which is estimated to generate 158,000 kWh a year.

The company is also optimizing operations through energy efficiency. For example, it is implementing LED lighting projects to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions as well as decrease operating costs.

Its 2022 Sustainability Report highlights its achievements and goals.

"At Viatris, access is fundamental to our mission of empowering people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life," said Scott A. Smith, CEO of Viatris, in a statement. "It begins with our ability to sustainably deliver high-quality medicines and health solutions at scale to people, regardless of geography or circumstance. Our commitment is both practical and aspirational and goes beyond developing, making, and distributing medicines. We also work with partners to help support healthy communities, a healthy environment, and resilient healthcare systems. The passion and dedication of our global workforce is remarkable and clearly on display in this report, which highlights the progress we are making to build more sustainable access to medicine across the globe."