GSK plans to be carbon neutral by 2050

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has published its 2010 Corporate Responsibility Report, with plans for the company to be carbon neutral by 2050.

This would mean the company would have no net carbon emissions along its production line, with GSK able to offset its emissions by investing in 'green' projects such as renewable energy, or by purchasing 'carbon credits' – a tradable permit allowing organisations to emit a certain amount of greenhouse gases.

Interim targets were also announced by GSK, with goals to reduce the company's net carbon emissions by 10 per cent over the next four years and 25 per cent over the next nine years.

Other environmental aspects of GSK's strategy include a target to reduce the company's operational water consumption by 20 per cent by 2015, and to reduce landfill waste from operations to zero by 2020.

GSK would gain financially by saving £100m a year with reduced energy, material and distribution costs according to a company statement.

As well as its environmental plans, the report desribes GSK's charitable activities, with the company stating that related initiatives in 2010 came to £222m, including £147m of product donations.

Projects to benefit from these initiatives include a five-year plan working with the World Health Organization (WHO) to expand its donation of albendazole for children at risk of intestinal worms.

Future projects were also announced by the company, with a pledge to offer its malaria vaccine candidate RTS,S at 'a level which is affordable for African countries' if approved, with all profit to be reinvested in the development of future vaccines and products for diseases in the developing world.

"There is always more that can be done but I am pleased with the progress we are making," said Andrew Witty, CEO, GSK. "Specifically this report outlines our efforts to strengthen our commitment to the environment and continue to improve access to our medicines across the world."