Boehringer Ingelheim inaugurated a new biomass power plant at its Ingelheim site on Monday, marking a significant step towards achieving its sustainability goals. This new facility optimizes the company’s energy supply while reducing its environmental footprint. The power plant is projected to save around 50,000 tons of CO2 annually, representing a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions from the site’s own energy generation. The company is investing €205 million in sustainable infrastructure projects in Ingelheim, enabling it to source 95% of its energy needs from renewable sources in the future.
Michael Schmelmer, Vice Chairman of the Board of Managing Directors, highlighted the commissioning as a significant milestone for Boehringer Ingelheim. “Protecting natural resources and ensuring a habitable earth for people and animals is a key part of our sustainability goals. A more environmentally friendly and independent energy supply guarantees stable production, allowing us to deliver vital medications to patients worldwide,” he explained.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of Robert Habeck, German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Economics, and Katrin Eder, Rhineland-Palatinate Environment Minister.
Federal Minister Habeck emphasized the necessity of decarbonizing all economic sectors to achieve global climate targets and reduce energy imports. “Boehringer Ingelheim exemplifies this commitment. The company utilizes renewable energies for production, fosters talent development as an attractive employer, and invests significantly in research and development, contributing to better healthcare and securing the future of its site,” he said.
Biomass, a crucial source of renewable energy, is considered virtually CO2 neutral. The waste wood utilized as fuel in Ingelheim is a byproduct sourced from the Rhine-Main area, adhering to rigorous quality standards.
Further measures for CO2 neutrality by 2030
The company has set a target of achieving CO2 neutrality in its business operations by 2030. To achieve this goal, numerous energy-saving projects are being implemented globally. For example, by constructing more energy-efficient buildings, Boehringer Ingelheim has already reduced energy needs in Ingelheim by 25% per square meter of floor space. The company has also been operating its own solar park in Ingelheim since 2023. Several other Boehringer Ingelheim sites, including Dortmund (Germany), Gainesville (USA), Zhangjian (China), and Sant Cugat (Spain), have already achieved carbon neutrality certification.
About Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company operating in both human and animal health sectors. As a leading investor in Research and Development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies to address unmet medical needs. Independent since its establishment in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim adopts a long-term perspective and integrates sustainability throughout its value chain. With over 53,500 employees serving more than 130 markets, the company strives to build a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable future. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.
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