In the pharmaceutical industry, packaging is essential for the protection and safety of products, but the transportation of this packaging carries a significant environmental impact. With the increased focus on sustainability, many companies are implementing innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated along the supply chain. In this article, we will discuss the environmental impact of transporting pharmaceutical packaging and strategies to reduce emissions, such as optimizing routes, using more efficient means of transportation, and adopting lightweight, more sustainable packaging.

The environmental impact of pharmaceutical packaging logistics

According to data from the European Environment Agency shared by the European Parliament, in the Old Continent, the transport sector is responsible for about a quarter of total CO₂ emissions. 71.7 percent of these are produced by road transport. Moreover, in the case of the pharmaceutical sector, packaging logistics is particularly complex: it requires a global distribution network and rather specific transport conditions. In fact, each stage of pharmaceutical packaging transportation-from production to distribution-leads to an increase in corporate carbon footprint, exposing companies to increasing pressure from regulators and consumers to adopt more sustainable practices. Let’s look in more detail at the main strategies being adopted today to reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceutical packaging.

 

Strategies to reduce emissions in pharmaceutical packaging logistics

1. Optimizing transportation routes

Planning transportation routes strategically is one of the most effective ways to reduce emissions. Through the use of logistics management software, the most direct routes can be chosen, minimizing the distances traveled and reducing fuel consumption. Through tools such as real-time monitoring, companies can improve shipment planning, minimizing empty trips and optimizing loads to make the most of each shipment.

 

2. Use of more efficient means of transportation

Investing in more efficient means of transportation, such as electric, hybrid or natural gas vehicles for short routes, can help reduce emissions. For longer routes, rail transport is a viable alternative to road transport, as it produces up to 80 percent less CO₂ emissions per ton transported, as attested by the second Italian Rail Freight Report, promoted by the Fermerci association in collaboration with Isfort. Adopting an environmentally friendly fleet also reduces long-term operating costs and improves corporate reputation in the eyes of consumers, who are increasingly concerned about sustainability.

 

3. Adoption of lightweight and recyclable packaging

The use of lighter and recyclable materials is also an important strategy to reduce overall cargo weight and, consequently, emissions generated during transportation. Reducing packaging weight can contribute significantly to lower CO₂ emissions by reducing fuel consumption and improving logistics efficiency. Environmentally sustainable packaging made from recyclable materials, such as FSC- or PEFC-certified cardboard, can reduce waste and minimize resource use.

 

4. Implementation of smart packaging

Smart packaging is another step toward improving logistics efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Using technologies such as RFID, temperature sensors, and QR codes, smart packaging allows the condition of products to be monitored along the supply chain, avoiding additional transportation due to errors or damage. Smart packaging is particularly useful for monitoring the temperature of sensitive drugs, reducing the risk of spoilage and minimizing the costs and environmental impact associated with returns or recalls. In addition, this technology improves traceability, facilitating inventory management and reducing the need for unplanned trips.

 

The benefits of adopting environmentally sustainable packaging for pharmaceutical companies

The adoption of environmentally sustainable packaging has a number of benefits, both in environmental and business terms, for pharmaceutical companies. Below are some of the main benefits:

1. Improved corporate image

Adopting environmentally sustainable packaging solutions enhances corporate reputation and improves brand perception among consumers, who are increasingly attentive to sustainable practices. A responsible approach to packaging production and transportation not only reduces environmental impact, but also creates added value for the brand.

2. Reduced operating costs

Lighter and more compact packaging reduces transportation and storage costs, improving the company’s operational efficiency. In addition, the fuel cost savings resulting from the reduction in overall cargo weight is a direct economic benefit to companies.

3. Compliance with environmental regulations

European legislation requires increasingly high standards in terms of sustainability, and the adoption of environmentally sustainable packaging enables companies to be compliant with current environmental laws. This not only avoids potential penalties, but also provides a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

 

Eurpack, the holistic approach to sustainability that makes the difference

In recent years, Eurpack has been recognized for its holistic approach to sustainability in the production of pharmaceutical packaging. With an EcoVadis Gold Medal, we are internationally recognized for our sustainability practices, implementing a number of initiatives to reduce environmental impact throughout the supply chain. In addition to using renewable energy and working with Treedom, we guarantee FSC and PEFC certified materials, ensuring responsible management of forest resources.

The transportation of pharmaceutical packaging is a major sustainability challenge. Adopting environmentally sustainable solutions not only reduces environmental impact, but also helps meet the needs of consumers and companies who want responsible pharmaceutical packaging that creates value in line with the values we share.