OPERATING RESPONSIBLY

ABOUT US

A healthy planet is essential for human and animal health.

As much as 24 percent of global disease is caused by environmental exposures that can be averted, according to the World Health Organization. Consider a few of the many ways people are affected by physical, chemical and biological risks in the environment:

Breathing air with high levels of soot and other pollution particles affects lung health, and research shows it increases risk for cardiovascular events.
Lack of safe drinking water is one of the leading causes of diarrhea, along with poor sanitation and hygiene.
Climate change and rising temperatures are increasing the risk of heat-related deaths and may encourage the spread of infectious diseases.

At Merck, we realize the world's current approach to resource use is not sustainable, and we believe companies-including our own-share the responsibility for doing something about it. Because as important as it is for us to deliver innovative medicines to the people of the world, we also must help protect the world they live in.

Merck has committed to becoming a more environmentally sustainable business by setting measurable goals, reporting on our progress in achieving them, and by striving to implement innovative, sustainable ways to operate.

All aspects of our business are involved in these efforts, from scientists adopting green chemistry processes to site managers reducing energy use Throughout the supply chain, we are evaluating ways to cut down on manufacturing waste and product packaging while increasing the use of recycled materials.

Learn more about Merck’s Environmental Sustainability.