Sustainability is currently one of the most pressing global priorities of the 21st century. This concept translates into the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. 

In recent years, the growing importance of environmental, social and governance issues – known by the acronym ESG – has shaped society, business models and the regulation of the global economy. This development has growing implications for the healthcare sector, including the community pharmacy sector. Sustainability is an essential pillar to ensure that pharmacies continue to provide excellent services, minimising environmental impact, maximising social impact and promoting a culture of responsibility and innovation. 

Environmental Pillar 

The health sector is a significant emitter of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) (1). If it were a country, it would be the fourth largest emitter on the planet. The drug cycle can account for about 20% of these emissions (2).  It is in this context that community pharmacies are inserted, which, as proximity and trusted health units, have a relevant role in promoting environmental sustainability. On the other hand, and according to the European Central Bank, Portugal is one of the countries with the highest climate and environmental risk (3). 

Community pharmacies, as local and trusted healthcare providers, play a key role in promoting environmental sustainability. Pharmacies can implement actions that have an impact on reducing energy consumption, carbon emissions and waste production. At the same time, they can implement adaptation measures to increase resilience to extreme events, such as fires or floods, ensuring safer and more sustainable infrastructure and processes. 

They share growing concerns about the negative effects that medicines can have on the environment and, consequently, on public health, and are key players in raising awareness, promoting rational use and ensuring the correct disposal of medicines. It is fundamental to ensure a balance between the safe and effective use of medicines and the reduction of associated environmental impacts. (4)

Social Pillar 

Pharmacies are, by nature, spaces of care and support for the community. Promoting the social dimension in pharmacies involves strengthening their role as an accessible, inclusive and supportive network. Whether through health literacy programs, support for vulnerable populations or partnerships with local institutions. Pharmacies have the ability to generate positive and lasting social impact. Investing in the social area is investing in the cohesion of communities and equity in access to health.  

The social awareness of pharmacies is also reflected in their internal culture, in the area of attracting and retaining talent and in the well-being of the teams.

 
Governance Pillar 

Good governance is an essential pillar that involves the adoption of ethical, transparent and responsible practices in the management of pharmacies, ensuring the trust of users, teams and society. Promoting good governance in pharmacies means ensuring the quality of services, compliance with legal and regulatory standards, and valuing their teams. 

Sustainability thus represents an urgent commitment: every action taken today must contribute to a healthier, fairer and more resilient future. Pharmacies have been promoting this commitment through responsible social, environmental and governance actions, supporting initiatives that strengthen the community and the environment.