Abstracts for Round Table (RT) Session 3: Sustainability: The Path Forward
Moderators: Jennifer Chu and Raxit Mehta
Presentation 1
Carbon Footprints – The Next Step on the Path Forward
Michael Royko, PhD, Global Sustainability Manager, BASF Pharma Solutions
Abstract:
The pharmaceutical sector, known for its complex supply chains and resource-intensive processes, faces increasing scrutiny regarding its environmental impact. By utilizing product carbon footprints (PCFs), companies can identify key areas for improvement, from raw material sourcing to manufacturing and distribution. The presentation will delve into how supplier specific product information, including PCFs, not only aids in regulatory compliance and risk management but also enhances brand reputation and consumer trust.
Bio:
Michael Royko is the global sustainability manager for BASF Pharma Solutions. Michael began his career at BASF focusing on sustainable research and development before moving to the pharmaceutical industry. His current focus is enabling the green transformation of the pharmaceutical industry by working on topics such as sustainable sourcing, low carbon manufacturing, and supply chain transparency.
Michael holds a PhD and bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.
Presentation 2
Sustainability in Pharma - Croda ingredients and initiatives
Sreejit Menon, PhD, Head of LIfe Sciences R&D, Croda Pharma
Abstract:
Croda Pharma is committed to sustainability through initiatives such as achieving net zero emissions by 2050, reducing waste and energy use, and utilizing renewable power. Their efforts include setting science-based targets, minimizing carbon footprints, and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In this presentation the participants will learn about Croda’s initiatives and products that highlights its commitment to be a leader in sustainability.
Bio:
Dr. Sreejit Menon is the Head of Life Sciences R&D at Croda with a background in specialty chemicals field spanning crop protection chemicals, and pharmaceutical excipients, dyes and pigments. He has driven innovation in specialty chemicals and excipient research, improving biologic and small molecule drug delivery. As a Life Sciences Champion and Industry Partner with NJDOL, he actively contributes to workforce development and industry collaboration, supporting emerging professionals. His commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns with global sustainability goals, furthering Croda's mission of using smart science to improve lives.
Presentation 3
Transition to Sustainable Blister Packaging in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Eben Frenzel, Senior Scientist, Pfizer
Abstract:
Blister packs are the predominant primary packaging for oral solid-dose pharmaceuticals in many regions worldwide. While polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has traditionally been selected for its proven effectiveness, the industry is now actively exploring opportunities to enhance sustainability. In response, a cross-industry workstream formed by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Forum (PMF) is identifying technical and regulatory pathways toward more environmentally conscious blister packaging solutions.
This presentation highlights emerging mono-polymer blister materials—polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—which show promise as PVC-free options for improving recyclability and reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Preliminary life-cycle assessments suggest these materials have strong potential to lower the overall carbon footprint. However, as the industry pursues large-scale implementation, considerations such as manufacturing process adaptations and regulatory requirements for product stability and integrity underscore the importance of a science-based, collaborative approach.
Bio:
Eben Frenzel is a Senior Scientist at Pfizer, specializing in drug product development and sustainable packaging solutions. With extensive experience from roles at Pfizer and previously as Global Segment Manager at Nefab Group, Eben has led numerous cross-functional projects focused on reducing environmental impact through innovative packaging materials and lifecycle management strategies. Their expertise spans technical analysis, market-driven sustainability initiatives, and aligning commercial objectives with emerging industry needs. Eben also leads Pfizer Sustainable Blister workstream which focuses on moving Pfizer towards lower emissions packaging material in line with a 2040 NetZero goal. At the 2025 AAPS-NERDG Conference, Eben will discuss recent advancements and practical strategies in sustainable packaging, emphasizing opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry to advance toward more sustainable and responsible practices.
Moderators: Jennifer Chu and Raxit Mehta
Presentation 1
Carbon Footprints – The Next Step on the Path Forward
Michael Royko, PhD, Global Sustainability Manager, BASF Pharma Solutions
Abstract:
The pharmaceutical sector, known for its complex supply chains and resource-intensive processes, faces increasing scrutiny regarding its environmental impact. By utilizing product carbon footprints (PCFs), companies can identify key areas for improvement, from raw material sourcing to manufacturing and distribution. The presentation will delve into how supplier specific product information, including PCFs, not only aids in regulatory compliance and risk management but also enhances brand reputation and consumer trust.
Bio:
Michael Royko is the global sustainability manager for BASF Pharma Solutions. Michael began his career at BASF focusing on sustainable research and development before moving to the pharmaceutical industry. His current focus is enabling the green transformation of the pharmaceutical industry by working on topics such as sustainable sourcing, low carbon manufacturing, and supply chain transparency.
Michael holds a PhD and bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.
Presentation 2
Sustainability in Pharma - Croda ingredients and initiatives
Sreejit Menon, PhD, Head of LIfe Sciences R&D, Croda Pharma
Abstract:
Croda Pharma is committed to sustainability through initiatives such as achieving net zero emissions by 2050, reducing waste and energy use, and utilizing renewable power. Their efforts include setting science-based targets, minimizing carbon footprints, and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In this presentation the participants will learn about Croda’s initiatives and products that highlights its commitment to be a leader in sustainability.
Bio:
Dr. Sreejit Menon is the Head of Life Sciences R&D at Croda with a background in specialty chemicals field spanning crop protection chemicals, and pharmaceutical excipients, dyes and pigments. He has driven innovation in specialty chemicals and excipient research, improving biologic and small molecule drug delivery. As a Life Sciences Champion and Industry Partner with NJDOL, he actively contributes to workforce development and industry collaboration, supporting emerging professionals. His commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns with global sustainability goals, furthering Croda's mission of using smart science to improve lives.
Presentation 3
Transition to Sustainable Blister Packaging in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Eben Frenzel, Senior Scientist, Pfizer
Abstract:
Blister packs are the predominant primary packaging for oral solid-dose pharmaceuticals in many regions worldwide. While polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has traditionally been selected for its proven effectiveness, the industry is now actively exploring opportunities to enhance sustainability. In response, a cross-industry workstream formed by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Forum (PMF) is identifying technical and regulatory pathways toward more environmentally conscious blister packaging solutions.
This presentation highlights emerging mono-polymer blister materials—polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—which show promise as PVC-free options for improving recyclability and reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Preliminary life-cycle assessments suggest these materials have strong potential to lower the overall carbon footprint. However, as the industry pursues large-scale implementation, considerations such as manufacturing process adaptations and regulatory requirements for product stability and integrity underscore the importance of a science-based, collaborative approach.
Bio:
Eben Frenzel is a Senior Scientist at Pfizer, specializing in drug product development and sustainable packaging solutions. With extensive experience from roles at Pfizer and previously as Global Segment Manager at Nefab Group, Eben has led numerous cross-functional projects focused on reducing environmental impact through innovative packaging materials and lifecycle management strategies. Their expertise spans technical analysis, market-driven sustainability initiatives, and aligning commercial objectives with emerging industry needs. Eben also leads Pfizer Sustainable Blister workstream which focuses on moving Pfizer towards lower emissions packaging material in line with a 2040 NetZero goal. At the 2025 AAPS-NERDG Conference, Eben will discuss recent advancements and practical strategies in sustainable packaging, emphasizing opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry to advance toward more sustainable and responsible practices.
