Sustainability
Our Approach
At AstraZeneca BeLux, our purpose extends far beyond our medicines. As we strive to deliver positive impact for people, society and the planet and future-proof our business, sustainability is at the heart of how we operate, integrated into every aspect of our enterprise.
Guided by AstraZeneca's global Sustainability strategy, we are focused on how we make a sustainable impact and how we do business. Our approach to driving sustainability impact has three key pillars: Climate and nature, Health equity and Health systems resilience.
Climate and nature action
At AstraZeneca BeLux, we understand that the health of people and the planet are interconnected. Alongside championing regional environmental initiatives, our local actions have a critical role to play in the delivery of AstraZeneca’s global decarbonisation strategy – Ambition Zero Carbon. Globally, AstraZeneca aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, those from its operations and fleet, by 98% by 2026 and reach net zero by 2045.
Low carbon operations
We’re working towards reducing the carbon footprint of our BeLux operations, including adopting renewable energy solutions.
Sustainable transport
We’re partnering with local suppliers to minimise the carbon footprint of our medicine distribution and have transitioned our car fleet to 100% battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Green spaces
AstraZeneca BeLux contributes to tree-planting efforts within Europe to help restore biodiversity and mitigate climate change.
Health equity
In Belgium and Luxembourg, we are committed to improving access to innovative treatments while addressing health care inequalities. Our initiatives include:
Equitable access for patients
We’re working to ensure that life-changing medicines are accessible to patients in need, regardless of their background. In collaboration with local health care stakeholders, we aim to remove barriers to care.
Innovative solutions
We’re driving digital innovation and patient-centric approaches to support early diagnosis, personalised care, and better outcomes.
Through our local and global programs, AstraZeneca BeLux is making strides to bring health equity closer to home.
Health systems resilience
Supporting health care systems
We’re partnering with health care professionals, policymakers and organisations to strengthen the resilience of healthcare systems in Belgium and Luxembourg.
How we do business
Integrity is central to everything we do at AstraZeneca BeLux. We are dedicated to operating responsibly, inclusively and transparently:
Promoting Inclusion and Diversity
At AstraZeneca BeLux, we celebrate diversity in our teams, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to grow and thrive. AstraZeneca BeLux is proud to champion gender equality and diversity within the workplace.
Engaging local communities
Through volunteer work and partnerships, our employees contribute to building healthier, stronger communities in Belgium and Luxembourg.
Ethical business practices
We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, fostering trust with patients, partners and healthcare providers.
Our Efforts
Serve the city – Street kindness
Since 2019, an AstraZeneca BeLux team has been collaborating with the "Serve the City" association to deliver food and clothing to homeless individuals and refugees in the Brussels area. Everyone we spoke with expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support, and the experience has been profoundly impactful for us as a team. We look forward to continuing these Share & Care activities in the future!
Planting Trees – Forest FWD
The Ruysbroeckveld nature park in Sint-Pieters-Leeuw was expanded this year with 2,600 new trees. This project, a collaboration between the municipality, AstraZeneca, and various nature organizations, aims to enhance biodiversity and improve the quality of life in the area. The planting events saw enthusiastic participation from AstraZeneca employees and residents. The park provides green space for recreation and contributes to a healthier environment, with a focus on air quality and biodiversity. This annual initiative is part of AstraZeneca’s sustainability efforts and the broader mission to keep the Flemish periphery green and livable.
EV vehicle 100%
AZ Belux has officially transitioned to a 100% electric vehicle fleet. This step reflects our commitment to sustainability and aligns with our corporate goal of reducing our environmental impact.
By adopting electric vehicles, we are significantly cutting emissions and contributing to cleaner air, supporting the health of our planet and communities. This transition is a testament to our dedication to creating a more sustainable and responsible future.
Ekiden Run
Since 2022, we have been taking part in Belgium's biggest relay marathon, showcasing our commitment to the planet and the well-being of our AZ community! Together, we covered around 170km while supporting the Pelicano Child Poverty Foundation. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed—we look forward to doing it again next year!
Supplier Diversity program Belgium
At AstraZeneca BeLux, our commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging is a core pillar of our Sustainability and Global I&D strategy. Embracing diversity is not only integral to our values but also essential for driving innovation, contributing to health equity, and amplifying our socio-economic impact.
Our Supplier Diversity program is a key part of this commitment, fostering resilience, innovation, and inclusivity across our supply chains while making a positive impact on society.
Kom op tegen Kanker
AstraZeneca BeLux came together with 2 teams and 8 runners, covering a total of 200km to support Kom op tegen Kanker. This fundraising event is not just about running—it’s about running for a cause, advancing R&D projects in the fight against cancer while embracing sustainability.
As we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, we're not just running miles; we're running towards a cancer-free world and a healthier planet.
At AstraZeneca, our oncology commitment to redefine cancer care is a daily mission. We strive to turn hope into impact while incorporating sustainable practices into every aspect of our work. Whether it's through eco-conscious event participation or groundbreaking research, we are dedicated to creating a future that’s healthier for people and the planet alike
Shaping a Sustainable Future
At AstraZeneca BeLux, we are passionate about making a difference in the lives of patients while minimizing our environmental footprint and ensuring ethical practices. Together with our local and global partners, we are committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable future.
Learn more about what science can do to build a sustainable future in the video below.
