BIAL

BIAL is an international pharmaceutical company focused on innovation. Dedicated to Research & Development (R&D) of new medicines, particularly in neurosciences, it remains the only Portuguese pharmaceutical company with its own research products on the market. Committed to improving people’s quality of life worldwide, BIAL has strengthened its international expansion, currently operating subsidiaries in 10 countries—including key European pharmaceutical markets—and marketing its medicines in more than 50 countries.

BIAL aims to address people’s healthcare needs while playing an active role in the global economy. It also aspires to contribute to building a knowledgeable, ethical, and dynamic society, based on scientific development and innovation.

Climate action

Regarding environmental sustainability, BIAL has been strengthening its commitment through various initiatives:

  • Expansion of the Self-Consumption Production Unit (UPAC), covering an area of more than 3,500 m² with an installed capacity of 741 kWp. In 2022, this investment prevented the emission of approximately 320 tons of CO2.
  • Increase in the number of electric charging stations in our facilities, now totaling 36 charging points. Additionally, the number of hybrid and electric vehicles in BIAL’s fleet has grown, accounting for 16% of the total vehicles.
  • Our cartons, leaflets, and cardboard boxes are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified, meaning the raw materials for our packaging come from sustainably managed forests. Furthermore, all cardboard boxes used for our products contain more than 50% recycled materials.
  • In 2022, by implementing continuous improvement actions in our processes, we reduced the volume of hazardous waste by 59% compared to 2021.
  • Reduction of 48% in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, covering Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions), compared to 2020. The most significant actions contributing to this reduction were the use of electricity from the UPAC and the acquisition of electricity with a guarantee of origin from renewable sources.
  • Promotion of circular economy initiatives, focusing on the digitization of processes and strengthening partnerships with suppliers for the return of packaging. Additionally, we redirected approximately 5 tons of organic solvent waste for recovery/regeneration.

Testimony

The signing of the Porto Climate Pact reflects our commitment to climate change: the incorporation of sustainability and the protection of the Environment in the management of our business and operations. There is an urgent need for collective and transformative action to protect the planet and to leave a better world for future generations. We are all called to do our part.

António Portela
CEO, 2022