Planetary health

The future of pharmaceuticals

We must not forget that medicines have had an outstanding impact on human health. Clear evidence of this is found in human life expectancy. Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, improvements to the quality and accessibility of healthcare, coupled with a general increase in development and living standards, has led to a considerable increase in life expectancy. Major advances leading to longer and healthier lives include the discovery of the antibiotic penicillin, chemicals for chemotherapy (Ghosh, 2019), and a wide assortment of pain treatments, vaccines, and other medicines.

We must find a balance between meeting societal needs and preserving the natural environment. The following videos highlight the contemporary research that is making the pharmaceutical industry more environmentally sustainable.

An industry perspective

Orion explains how green chemistry is introduced in the development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).

Academic and research perspective

In this video, Professor Klaus Kümmerer delves into the opportunities and innovative solutions for transforming the pharmaceutical industry into a more sustainable sector. He emphasises the crucial role of various stakeholders (patients, doctors, and pharmacists) in supporting and advocating for greener alternatives to traditional medications. By working together, these stakeholders can drive the adoption of sustainable practices and greener methodologies, ultimately helping to create a healthier future for both people and the planet.