GSK PLC has announced its commitment to a more sustainable future with the development of a new Ventolin inhaler propellant set to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 90%. The pharmaceutical giant is preparing for Phase III trials of this novel Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI), which could significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) treatments.
The company's CEO, Emma Walmsley, highlighted the initiative as part of GSK's broader strategy to align with the Science Based Target Initiative's net zero goals. These goals include an ambitious target to cut emissions by up to 90% by 2045, backed by a £1 billion investment in projects like the low-emission inhaler program.
The new technology addresses a major environmental challenge posed by current MDIs, such as Ventolin, which are a substantial component of both GSK's carbon footprint and that of health systems worldwide. Traditional inhalers use HFC propellants, which, while less harmful than CFCs, are still potent greenhouse gases. The redesigned low-carbon Ventolin is expected to begin Phase III trials in early 2024 at GSK’s French Evreux facility, specializing in sustainable respiratory inhaler production. If these trials are successful and regulatory approval is obtained, the market introduction is anticipated for 2025.
Walmsley emphasized the critical role corporations must play in minimizing healthcare emissions as part of overall decarbonization efforts. The announcement comes at a time when there is growing public demand for transparency regarding the environmental costs of medicines. GSK has responded by pledging full renewable energy use by 2025 and setting aggressive emission reduction targets leading up to their net zero goal for 2045.
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