Life Science sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medtech, and other scientific specialisms including chemicals and FMCG, have long been central to driving innovations – from technological breakthroughs in diagnostics to life-saving drugs – that have made remarkable impacts on the way we live, and how long for.  

However, historically such progress has unfortunately had significant environmental costs too. As the challenges of the climate crisis increase and accelerate, Life Science has a responsibility to confront its dual challenge: how to continue driving innovation, whilst reducing its ecological and environmental footprint.  

The environmental cost of Life Science innovation 

Whether it is high demand on human skills, technology or materials, life science processes and functions are inherently resource intensive. In 2023, the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors emitted approximately 397 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂-e), a similar figure to that of the automotive industry – widely seen as one of the most environmentally impactful sectors.  

According to a 2024 report from My Green Lab, a nonprofit organisation focused on improving sustainability in science, Scope 3 emissions – which are generated indirectly through supply chains, product use, and disposal – accounted for 5.4 to 6.5 times more than Scope 1 and 2 emissions combined. These emissions are attributed to a variety of processes, from sourcing raw materials to packing, transporting and storing finished products.  

Life Science is a sector in transition 

Thankfully, life science isn’t an industry that ever stands still, and is currently amid a transformation that’ll make for cleaner, greener scientific discovery in the future.  

More than 60% of companies have now committed to net-zero targets and are aiming to achieve this goal by 2037 – 11 years ahead of the cross-sector average. Whilst this momentum is being partly driven by regulatory pressures, there is a sector-wide understand that sustainability is imperative for life science – not only morally, but from a strategic perspective too.  

Leading firms such as Pfizer, GSK, and AstraZeneca are at the forefront of such efforts, already investing heavily in green chemistry, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. AstraZeneca, for example, has developed a new inhaler using a propellant with 99.9% lower global warming potential as part of its Ambition Zero Carbon strategy. These efforts reflect a wider adoption of clean tech in life sciences, with companies investing in energy-efficient solutions, sustainable packaging, and net zero pharma strategies.

The human factor: Life Science roles driving change 

While technology and infrastructure are critical, the brilliant minds of scientists and experts behind life science are what remain at the heart of ensuring the sector can continue to evolve, making an increasingly large impact on science, whilst reducing the impact on the planet.  

Across life science, professionals in a variety of roles are driving change from within, reshaping how organisations, industries and their workforces think, operate, and innovate. These include:  

  • Sustainability Managers and ESG Officers – increasingly central to corporate strategy, they work across departments to embed environmental goals into business operations, ensuring that sustainability is a core priority. 

  • Environmental Scientists and Engineers – at the heart of designing cleaner manufacturing processes and greener facilities, their work includes implementing energy-efficient HVAC systems, water recycling technologies, and waste reduction protocols. 

  • Green Chemists and Biotechnologists – at the forefront of innovation, developing biodegradable materials, bio-based alternatives to petrochemicals, and low-impact synthesis methods, their research helps companies reduce hazardous waste and improve atom economy. 

  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Specialists – play a crucial role in evaluating the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle, by analysing everything from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal and making data-driven decisions that reduce emissions and waste. 

  • Regulatory Affairs Specialists – navigating the evolving landscape of sustainability regulations as governments introduce stricter environmental standards, and ensuring compliance while advocating for greener practices in product development and distribution. 

  • Consultants and Change Agents – often external experts, these roles are guiding companies through complex transitions by helping to balance environmental goals with cost, compliance, and innovation, and offering strategic insights that accelerate progress. 

Technology as a catalyst for changing Life Science processes 

Behind such roles, technology is powering a digital transformation that is amplifying the impact of human efforts. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being used to optimize R&D and manufacturing processes, reducing waste and energy consumption, with digital twins – virtual replicas of existing physical systems – simulating production environments and test sustainability scenarios before implementation, which helps to save time and resources. 

Blockchain technology is enhancing supply chain transparency, ensuring ethical sourcing and responsible waste management. Meanwhile, telemedicine and digital diagnostics are reducing the need for physical infrastructure and travel, lowering emissions and expanding access to care. 

Opportunities for sustainable future in Life Science 

Life science’s sustainability transition presents a wealth of opportunities. The eco-friendly lab equipment market is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2025, while the bio-based chemicals market is expected to hit $89 billion by 2027. These figures reflect growing demand for sustainable solutions and the potential for new revenue streams. 

Companies that lead on ESG are also attracting investment, talent, and customer loyalty, and as sustainability becomes key to investors looking to make responsible contributions, organisations that demonstrate environmental awareness and a willingness to respond to challenges are gaining a competitive edge.  

And as collaborative ecosystems – bringing together governments, NGOs, academia, and industry – are being built, progress is accelerating. Shared infrastructure, open innovation platforms, and public-private partnerships are enabling faster, more inclusive transitions. 

Life Science’s collective responsibility 

Creating a greener life sciences sector is not just a technical challenge, it’s a human one. From lab technicians to C-suite executives, every role has a part to play. By empowering people, leveraging technology, and embedding sustainability into the DNA of the industry, life sciences can continue to improve lives without compromising the planet.