Oluwatobi Adu 
GENEVA – The World Health Organization (WHO) is intensifying global efforts to cut carbon emissions in pharmaceutical production by pushing regulators, manufacturers and procurement bodies to adopt greener manufacturing standards.
According to a WHO update released on its website on Friday, the push follows a virtual consultation held on 8 May 2026 involving more than 100 participants from over 30 institutions across the globe.
The consultation focuses on how regulatory systems can support the transition to low-carbon pharmaceutical production and align the sector with global climate targets.
Participants highlight that pharmaceutical manufacturing contributes significantly to global emissions, particularly during the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients and related processes.
They note that cleaner production methods could significantly reduce emissions without increasing costs or limiting access to essential medicines.
Procurement is identified as a key driver of change, with stakeholders arguing that purchasing policies can encourage pharmaceutical companies to measure, report and reduce emissions.
They also suggest that harmonised procurement standards could accelerate innovation and sustainability across global supply chains.
Director of WHO’s Department of Regulation and Prequalification, Dr Rogério Gaspar, says climate action has become central to global health policy.
“Climate change and health is a strategic priority for WHO,” he says.
He adds that regulatory systems must support decarbonisation while maintaining safety, quality and access.
“The objective of this initiative is to clarify where regulation currently constrains or slows down decarbonization, identify opportunities for regulatory leadership and flexibility, and build consensus across regulators, industry and global health actors on practical pathways that preserve quality, safety and access,” Gaspar says.
The consultation will inform WHO’s forthcoming White Paper on the Greener Pharmaceuticals’ Regulatory Highway, expected in July 2026.
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Korede Abdullah 
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