Glass and pharmaceutical packaging: a sustainable choice
Pharmaceutical glass is essential for the storage and distribution of drugs globally. According to Freedonia Group's 'Global Pharmaceutical Packaging' study (2021), the use of glass in this sector is steadily increasing, driven by increased investment in research and development. The Technavio Research Institute predicts that the pharmaceutical glass packaging market will grow by $7.73 billion between 2024 and 2028, underlining the growing importance of this material for the pharmaceutical industry.
As well as experiencing significant growth, glass is recognised as a sustainable material, thanks to its durability and the fact that it can be recycled, and in particular allows:
- Conservation of natural resources: Recycling glass reduces the need to extract new raw materials, such as sand, soda ash and limestone, that are used in production. This process contributes to the conservation of non-renewable natural resources and the protection of natural habitats.
- Infinite recyclability: Glass can be recycled infinitely without compromising its quality, thus decreasing the demand for new raw materials and reducing the overall environmental impact.
- Energy saving: Recycling glass requires less energy than production from scratch, as recycled glass has a lower melting point. This translates into a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Glass therefore remains a preferred choice, not only for its excellent technical properties, but for its contribution to the pharmaceutical industry’s circular economy.
Possible initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceutical glass
Despite significant progress in terms of sustainability, companies must continue their efforts to further improve the environmental impact of pharmaceutical glass. Here are some of the main initiatives to be taken into consideration:
Increase the percentage of recycled material: for a more sustainable production, it is essential to increase the use of recycled materials. The goal is to achieve an ever increasing percentage of recycled glass (cullet) in products, thus reducing the demand for virgin raw materials and overall environmental impact. A significant example is Bormioli Pharma's '50-5' project, an ambitious initiative that aims to use 50 per cent sustainable raw materials in production by 2025.
- Measuring and monitoring energy/water consumption: the sustainability of glass also depends on the efficient management of resources during the production process. Monitoring and reducing the consumption of energy, water and gas is key to reducing environmental impact. Companies must strive to improve energy and water efficiency by taking measures to optimise the consumption of resources in production processes.
- Product Life Cycle Analysis (LCA): life cycle analysis is an essential tool for assessing the overall environmental impact of pharmaceutical glass. This scientific analysis makes it possible to identify those stages of the product life cycle that have the greatest environmental impact and to develop strategies to reduce it. Implementing systematic approaches such as the Carbon Footprint Systematic Approach (CFSA) makes it possible to monitor and reduce carbon emissions in the long term.
- Introducing advanced and innovative technologies: technological innovation is key to reducing the environmental impact of glass production. The research and development of new technologies for glass packaging, such as hydrogen-compatible ovens, are important steps towards more sustainable production. Collaborations with research centres and international organisations aid the development of innovative solutions to improve the sustainability of pharmaceutical glass.
Pharmaceutical glass is a growing sector and can reduce its environmental impact through suitable practices. Investing in recycled materials, improving the efficiency of production processes and adopting innovative technologies are crucial steps towards minimising the environmental impact of glass while ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products. The combination of these efforts contributes to a more sustainable future for the pharmaceutical industry and the environment.