Introduction - Sustainability & Inclusivity in Pharma Facility Design
In the pharmaceutical industry, sustainability and inclusivity are no longer optional—they are essential components of workplace design. AstraZeneca’s ambitious ‘People Hub’ project at its Macclesfield campus exemplifies how these principles can come together to create a state-of-the-art facility that fosters collaboration while meeting stringent environmental standards.
At the heart of this transformation is BGEN, an engineering firm committed to driving sustainability and inclusivity in partnership with AstraZeneca. Craig Cowley, Contracts Manager at BGEN, spoke to Pharma IQ to offer a first-hand account of the project’s journey, lessons learned, and how this groundbreaking initiative reflects broader industry trends in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices.
Building Sustainability into Pharma Workplaces
Pharma IQ: What specific sustainability measures were implemented in the People Hub project, and how do these align with AstraZeneca’s long-term environmental goals?
Craig Cowley: Through its Ambition Zero Carbon strategy, AstraZeneca aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 98% by 2026 and halve its value chain footprint by 2030. This project is a cornerstone of that strategy, focusing on energy efficiency, material reuse, and low-carbon design.
Key sustainability measures included retaining existing structural elements like concrete foundations, steel frames, and staircases, minimising waste and embodied carbon. Insulated floors and roofs, upgraded glazing, and eco-friendly plumbing fixtures enhance the building's energy efficiency. These initiatives demonstrate how sustainability can be integral to every aspect of design and construction.
Designing for Inclusivity and Collaboration
Pharma IQ: How does the design of the People Hub contribute to AstraZeneca’s goals for fostering a more inclusive and collaborative work environment, and what impact do you expect it to have?
Craig Cowley: The People Hub is a flexible, inclusive workspace that adapts to diverse needs. Features like modular meeting rooms and a multi-functional faith and welfare room promote accessibility and inclusivity. Collaborative areas like mezzanine briefing spaces and mixed-scale meeting rooms encourage teamwork and innovation.
This design not only aligns with AstraZeneca’s inclusivity goals but also addresses employee wellbeing, particularly for new parents transitioning back into the workforce. Such thoughtful design has the potential to improve staff retention, collaboration, and productivity.
Lessons for the Future of Pharmaceutical Workplaces
Pharma IQ: What lessons from the People Hub project can be applied to future pharmaceutical workplace designs, particularly in terms of balancing sustainability with inclusivity?
Craig Cowley: This project underscores the importance of collaboration, listening to client needs, and integrating sustainability into design. It demonstrates that inclusivity and environmental goals can coexist through innovative solutions.
Pharmaceutical workplaces must be forward-thinking, combining flexible spaces for office and manufacturing staff with compliance to GMPs. Engaging employees early in the design process ensures that facilities meet their needs while supporting long-term organisational objectives.
Conclusion
The People Hub project at AstraZeneca’s Macclesfield campus sets a benchmark for combining sustainability and inclusivity in pharmaceutical workplace design. As Craig Cowley emphasises, these goals are achievable through thoughtful collaboration, innovative design, and a commitment to ESG principles.
This initiative is more than a building project—it’s a roadmap for the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing. By prioritising flexibility, energy efficiency, and inclusivity, AstraZeneca and BGEN demonstrate how partnerships can deliver meaningful change, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable industry.
Learn More: Pharma Contract Manufacturing & Sustainability
Discover how sustainability and inclusivity are shaping the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing. Dive into the latest trends, strategies, and success stories driving change in the industry at Pharma IQ's annual Pharma Contract Manufacturing Conference: https://www.pharma-iq.com/events-pharmacontractmanufacturing