Transforming the Future of Sustainable Medicine Production

Innovate UK has committed over £14 million to support 29 pioneering projects aimed at revolutionising the UK’s medicines manufacturing sector. This investment is part of the Sustainable Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Programme (SMMIP) delivered in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Care.

Driving Innovation for a Greener Future  
SMMIP is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and investment in sustainable pharmaceutical production. It targets disruptive technologies that improve efficiency, minimise waste and reduce emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Backed by the 2024 Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicines Pricing, Access and Growth Investment Programme, this initiative is part of a larger £400 million government-industry partnership to bolster the UK’s global life sciences competitiveness. The scheme supports key focus areas, including:
- Clinical trials  
- Health technology assessment  
- Medicines manufacturing

Two Competitions, One Vision  
The programme has launched two funding competitions:

- Grand Challenge EOI – £1.3 million awarded to 15 projects to support early-stage collaboration and planning for large-scale challenges.  
- Collaborative R&D (CR&D) – £13 million granted to 14 transformative projects tackling real-world environmental issues in pharma production, including emissions, waste, and energy use.

Foundations for a Sustainable Industry  
These 29 projects align with three core sustainability pillars:  
Circularity –advancing material reuse and recycling  
Green Chemistry – safer, cleaner processes with minimal environmental impact  
Productivity and Resource Efficiency – maximising output while conserving resources  

Regulation and data infrastructure are also highlighted as critical enablers of success.

Voices from the Sector

This £14 million investment shows our commitment to placing the UK at the forefront of sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing, said Health Minister Karin Smyth It’s not just about reducing environmental impact it’s about creating jobs and growing our economy.

Producing medicines more sustainably and efficiently is essential for both patients and the planet, said Dr Stella Peace Interim Executive Chair at Innovate UK. These collaborations will help maintain the UK’s leadership in this crucial area.

In a competitive global market, the UK must leverage its innovation strengths, added Joe Edwards of the ABPI. These projects are a testament to the UK’s technological leadership and growth potential in sustainable pharma.

A Path Forward  
Through strong partnerships between industry, academia, and government the UK is forging a cleaner, smarter, and more competitive future in medicine manufacturing one that supports net zero targets, fuels economic growth, and ensures access to life-saving treatments for generations to come.

Source: https://www.ukri.org/news/transforming-the-future-of-sustainable-medicine-production/