Amgen has a monumental goal: reach net zero before the end of the decade, by 2027 specifically. Amgen pledges to reduce water use by 40% and waste disposal by 75% across all its sites, and is a leader in sustainable, efficient manufacturing processes.
Improving the Manufacturing Process
Amgen was recently recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency for creating an improved manufacturing process to enable a greener synthesis process for LUMAKRAS™ (Sotorasib), a novel drug for treatment of certain non-small cell lung cancers. This new process substantially reduces waste and decreases manufacturing time by cutting the number of steps involved and eliminating a purification step that created large quantities of solvent waste. Amgen also implemented a recycling process for a harmful substance which improved efficiency and reduced the amount of waste generated. Amgen estimates these improvements will reduce waste by up to 31.7 million pounds per year while also improving the yield, cost, throughput and overall sustainability of Sotorasib production.
Reaching Net Zero by 2027
Amgen’s net zero plan focuses on accomplishing three major milestones by 2027: (1) 100% carbon neutral scope 1 and 2 plans; (2) 70% reduction in water use; and (3) 100% reduction and diversion of waste. To date, Amgen has accomplished the following:
- Reduced carbon emissions from on-site combustion of fuel by 36% in one year by purchasing renewable electricity in North American facilities. In 2021,carbon emissions decreased by 88,000 metric tons (MT) from 2020, a 36% reduction from the previous year.
- Reduced water usage significantly through the implementation of innovation and water efficiency projects, including water reclamation projects, irrigation control enhancements and completion of equipment commissioning. In 2021, Amgen decreased its total water usage by 117,000 cubic meters (CM) from 2020. Since 2007, Amgen has avoided the usage of 1,000,000 CM of water annually through the implementation of water innovation and efficiency projects. Amgen has reduced water consumption by 30% since 2007.
- Reduced the volume of its waste disposal by diverting waste to a waste-to-energy facility. The Amgen Rhode Island manufacturing facilities now divert 80% of landfill waste to the waste-to-energy facility. Amgen has been able to reduce waste by 28% since 2007.