Takeda Neuchâtel: Committed to the Environment and the Community

As a leading values-based, research-driven Japanese digital biopharmaceutical company, Takeda's goal is to improve patients' quality of life and create new treatment opportunities. Its Neuchâtel site, specialized in the production of medicines for the treatment of patients with blood clotting disorders, supplies more than 80 countries with life-changing medicines.

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Sustainability is not only a lip service at Takeda – it is lived every day. While Takeda´s approach to corporate sustainability includes sustainable supply of our products to patients, diversity, equity and inclusion and other aspects, Takeda puts a specific focus on protecting the environment: Globally, the Takeda Group pursues ambitious environmental sustainability goals.

The company is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 in its own operations and for its entire value chain by 2040. Reducing Takeda's environmental and carbon footprint in Neuchâtel, where it employs nearly 650 people of 20 different nationalities, is a top priority. The production site has a dozen ongoing projects and other ones planned until 2030 in different categories: improving energy efficiency and heat recovery, electrification, eliminating fossil fuels, eliminating refrigerants with a high Global Warming Potential and maximizing biodiversity on the site.

Investments in sustainability in Neuchâtel

In less than 10 years, Takeda plans to invest around 30 million Swiss francs in its Climate Action Program (CAPS).  The Neuchâtel site, which already sources 100% renewable electricity, is investing in energy efficiency improvement projects, electrification, such as industrial heat pumps and electric boilers for steam production, as well as the development of on-site renewable energy such as the installation of solar panels.

The most recent example is the construction of an 18,000 m2 solar field, which is scheduled to be commissioned at the end of 2024. This facility will provide 25% of the site's electricity. The plant will have a capacity of 3.7 MW and produce 4 GWh of electricity.

Improving biodiversity and mobility

The company is actively improving biodiversity through a comprehensive action plan. To mark the International Day for Biological Diversity, Takeda Neuchâtel installed 30 nesting boxes and planted 25 fruit trees in collaboration with local partners. Takeda Neuchâtel maintained seven beehives for four years, promoting pollination and sharing honey with employees on special occasions. Since 2021, a 1000 m² community garden provides outdoor relaxation for staff, alongside insect hotels. The company is actively improving biodiversity through a comprehensive action plan.

For 15 years, Takeda in Neuchâtel has championed a mobility plan, facilitated employee travel while prioritized sustainability. This initiative aligns with Takeda's broader mission of advancing health and fostering a better future. The plan encompasses various measures to promote eco-friendly commuting, such as subsidizing public transport passes for approximately a hundred employees and offering vouchers for cycling enthusiasts. Additionally, Takeda supports participation in the Bike to Work Challenge, providing twenty e-bikes for employee use. Carpooling is encouraged, with around 150 employees benefitting from free parking, alongside complimentary charging stations for electric vehicles.

Responsibility and commitment at the core

Takeda Neuchâtel's long-term commitment to the environment and the community is undeniable. Through its initiatives to reduce its ecological footprint, promote biodiversity, and encourage soft mobility, the company demonstrates its commitment to preserving the environment and improving the well-being of its employees. These concrete actions, ranging from the production of renewable energy to the creation of a community garden, illustrate Takeda's focus on sustainability and social responsibility. By continuing its efforts, Takeda Neuchâtel is actively contributing to building a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.