AstraZeneca: Climate Action through Nature Based Solutions

As a global, science-led pharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca is embedding sustainability across every stage of its operations, from research and manufacturing to patient care. 

Recognising the "deep interconnection" between human health, environmental stability and resilient health systems, the company’s sustainability strategy focuses on delivering long-term value for society while reducing its impact on the planet. 

Through science, collaboration and investment, the company is working to accelerate the transition to net zero, sustainable healthcare.

Tackling climate change

Climate change can accelerate global health challenges, increase disease burden and widen health inequalities while placing additional strain on healthcare systems. 

At the same time, healthcare is responsible for around 5% of global GHG emissions, largely driven by supply chains and product use, according to AstraZeneca.

“We are in an exciting era of science and innovation that holds the promise of delivering medical breakthroughs and transforming healthcare for billions of people worldwide,” says Pam Cheng, Executive Vice President, Global Operations & IT and Chief Sustainability Officer, AstraZeneca.

“At AstraZeneca, we recognise we have an important role to play in realising this potential. 

“We want to close healthcare gaps to improve health equity, strengthen the resilience of health systems to meet current and future needs and support the health of our planet by reducing our environmental footprint and investing in climate and nature action.”

AstraZeneca is addressing both sides of this challenge through its Ambition Zero Carbon strategy, backed by more than US$1bn in investment to decarbonise its operations and value chain.

The company aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 98% by 2026 and cut Scope 3 emissions by 50% by 2030 on the path to science-based net zero by 2045.

This includes transitioning its global fleet to EVs, increasing renewable energy use, improving energy productivity and tackling high-impact emissions sources such as fluorinated gases used in inhaler production.

AstraZeneca was among the first companies globally to have its net zero pathway verified by the Science Based Targets Initiative.

Protecting nature

Beyond carbon, AstraZeneca is taking a science-led approach to protecting nature and biodiversity. 

“Halting and reversing nature loss is critical for human health,” says Liz Chatwin, Vice President, Global Sustainability & SHE, AstraZeneca.

“We’re taking action across our value chain and working with our peers to improve the health of people and our planet.”

Its global AZ Forest programme aims to plant 200 million trees across six continents by 2030, restoring ecosystems, supporting local livelihoods and helping to balance residual emissions through high-quality, nature-based solutions.

More than 40 million trees have already been planted since 2020.

The company is also reducing its use of natural resources and minimising pollution across its value chain.

It has achieved a 23% reduction in water use compared to a 2015 baseline and reduced waste by 13% over the same period, while growing its business.

Initiatives include sustainable sourcing of raw materials, strict controls on pharmaceutical discharges to protect water quality and investment in circular solutions for plastics and packaging.

In 2025, AstraZeneca published its first Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures report, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and nature-positive action.

Resilient and equitable health systems

Sustainability at AstraZeneca extends beyond environmental performance to strengthening health systems and addressing health inequalities.

Ageing populations, chronic disease and environmental shocks are placing unprecedented pressure on healthcare services worldwide.

In response, AstraZeneca works with governments, health systems, academia and non-governmental organisations to co-create solutions that improve prevention, early diagnosis and access to evidence-based care.

A key example is the Partnership for Health System Sustainability and Resilience, established with the London School of Economics and the World Economic Forum.

Active in more than 30 countries, the initiative delivers research-backed policy recommendations to help health systems become more resilient, equitable and sustainable.

By combining climate action, nature protection and health system transformation, AstraZeneca is demonstrating how pharmaceutical companies can play a central role in building a healthier future for people, society and the planet.

At Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit, Sustainability Magazine will be hosting discussions on nature based solutions, water sustainability, circularity and many more.

The two-day event is set to take place at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster, London, between the 4-5 March 2026, bringing together sustainability experts from around the globe for a series of enlightening panel discussions, engaging workshops and unparalleled networking opportunities.

The event features 50+ expert speakers, 10 focused content tracks and 4 high-impact executive workshops, aiding leadership meet execution.

Secure your tickets to attend now and save more than £200 with our Early Bird offer.