In this interview, we sit down with Ghizlane Lahlal, the Sustainability Manager of Eurotranspharma, to discuss the company’s journey towards sustainability, the challenges faced in the healthcare logistics sector, and the strategic actions taken to promote environmental responsibility.
What is your role at Eurotranspharma? How long have you been with the company?
Ghizlane Lahlal: As the Sustainability Manager of Eurotranspharma Group, my role is to oversee the implementation of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and raising awareness of sustainable practices among stakeholders. I joined the team in May of 2023.
How have you seen Eurotranspharma’s strategy towards sustainability evolve over the time you have been here?
Ghizlane Lahlal: Over time, we have observed more structure and ambitious growth demanded from the market, with increased client demands regarding sustainability, greater involvement of suppliers, defined and followed-up KPIs, and more concrete and digitalized data collection.
The leadership of Eurotranspharma has integrated these requirements into our strategy and implemented operations accordingly. For example, In 2023, we launched our first carbon report with Greenly, a certified third party that helped us compute carbon emissions according to international standards such as the GHG Protocol and ISO 14083. This was a large investment and strategic milestone, and since has allowed us to construct a science-based roadmap to reduce our impact.
Could you provide an overview of sustainability in the transport sector, particularly in international healthcare and pharmaceutical logistics? What unique challenges does this sector face in adopting sustainable practices?
Ghizlane Lahlal: Sustainability in the transport sector, especially in international healthcare and pharmaceutical logistics, involves several distinct challenges. One of the main issues is that the technology required for sustainable transport is still maturing and developing. Additionally, significant infrastructure limitations need to be addressed to fully achieve this goal.
The costs associated with implementing sustainable solutions are high; we see that pharmaceutical manufacturers are sometimes reluctant to pay extra for more environmentally friendly options. In the healthcare sector, the complexity is even greater: the urgency of medical and pharmaceutical deliveries, often essential to patient health, can limit the feasibility of sustainable options, as fast and energy-intensive transport methods may take precedence over more eco-friendly alternatives.
To make significant progress in sustainability, the sector must integrate environmental considerations at every stage of decision-making, balancing the need for rapid delivery with sustainability.
What are the main actions taken by Eurotranspharma to contribute to sustainable transition in the transport sector?
Ghizlane Lahlal: Eurotranspharma implements several strategic actions to support sustainability and reduce its environmental impact in the transport sector. The main initiatives include fleet renewal and management, investment in cleaner technologies and fuels, optimization and consolidation, collaboration with stakeholders, and monitoring and reporting the progress of these initiatives. By modernizing our fleet, reducing our footprint, reducing inefficiencies, and working closely with our partners, we aim to lead the way in sustainable transport solutions.
How do you engage employees and stakeholders in sustainability efforts?
Ghizlane Lahlal: We engage employees and stakeholders through various initiatives, including CSR events, training sessions, consultations, and discussions. We also keep our clients informed through presentations and regular updates on our sustainability initiatives. Our annual CSR Report, available on the UN Global Compact website, provides detailed updates on our sustainability efforts and ensures transparency and accountability.
What have been some of the company’s recent milestones?
Ghizlane Lahlal: Eurotranspharma has achieved several significant milestones recently. We have developed and implemented a comprehensive environmental strategy, expanded our Ecovadis sustainability assessment to Belgium, improved France’s Ecovadis score, and are in the process of implementing the ISO 14001 environmental management standard. Additionally, our commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has been validated, demonstrating our dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with climate science.
How do you handle the challenges of promoting sustainability in a diverse international network like Eurotranspharma’s, which spans multiple sites and countries?
Ghizlane Lahlal: Promoting sustainability across a diverse international network involves leveraging our intranet platform, “We Are Walden,” implementing communication actions like newsletters and the Walden Awards, and establishing governance structures. Regular meetings and audits help maintain a cohesive approach to sustainability across our international network.
How do you ensure continuous improvement and innovation in sustainability practices?
Ghizlane Lahlal: At Eurotranspharma, we have integrated sustainability with ISO 9001 and GDP certification, ensuring that the same management system applies to both quality and environmental subjects. This integration facilitates continuous improvement through regular evaluations, audits, management reviews, and follow-ups. We also maintain a regulatory watch to stay updated on the latest environmental regulations and standards and respond to client demands to innovate and enhance our sustainability practices.
What does the future look like for Eurotranspharma?
Ghizlane Lahlal: The future for Eurotranspharma is focused on advancing sustainability and environmental responsibility. By January 2026, the Walden Group plans to publish our first CSRD report, share our net zero goal and decarbonation plan through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and expand our Ecovadis sustainability assessment to all countries. We also plan to invest in green vehicles to reduce the environmental impact of our transport operations, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in our practices.
Learn more about Eurotranspharma’s commitment to sustainability here.
