Global contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) Vetter has reached another important milestone regarding sustainability.

All of its German sites will be supplied with only CO₂-neutral energy from certified renewable energy sources. This action underlines the CDMO’s commitment to climate and environmental protection as an important element of its corporate responsibility.

As a partner of both large and small biotechnology and pharmaceutical customers, Vetter has been meeting high international sustainability requirements for many years. The company is certified according to the standards for environmental protection International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) 14001, energy management ISO: 50001, as well as occupational health and safety British Standard (BS) Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS) 18001.

Managing director Thomas Otto said: “Sustainability is a central pillar of Vetter’s corporate philosophy and our stance on this subject is firmly anchored within our organization. The supply of our German sites with green electricity is an important part of our company-wide program for environmental protection, energy management, and occupational health and safety.

“Our aim is to act holistically and develop our multi-faceted initiatives in these areas on a continuous basis.”

The next milestone has already been set. Within the next ten years, Vetter plans to offset the company wide use of natural gas, making it completely CO₂ neutral. Unavoidable CO₂ emissions are offset by investments in high-quality climate protection projects.

The largest sustainability project the CDMO recently implemented is at its state-of-the-art centre for visual inspection and logistics, which received the international industry prize Facility of the Year Award (FOYA) in 2018 as a Facility of the Future.

The site consequently realises a sustainable energy concept specifically developed by Vetter. This includes the operation of a modern, environmentally friendly block heating and power plant, the use of geothermal energy and the comprehensive use of excess energy, as well as powerful photovoltaic systems, all of which are combined in an energy-efficient manner.

The company-wide EHS programme also includes actions for sustainable, resource-efficient management, the promotion of healthy working conditions, and regular training for all staff members to raise their individual awareness of responsible behaviour.