UCB JAPAN COMPANY LTD. receives ESG Program of the Year - Japan at Healthcare Asia Pharma Awards 2025

The company bagged the accolade for its effective environmental, social, and governance activities through external collaboration.

UCB JAPAN COMPANY LTD. earned recognition at the Healthcare Asia Pharma Awards 2025, which commended the company for updating the Saitama Plant's accident-free record and using 100% renewable energy in its Saitama Plant. 

Since 2017, the Saitama Plant has maintained a contract with a renewable energy supplier. However, due to the impacts of theUkraine situation and other challenges in 2022, the energy provider faced difficulties in ensuring a stable supply.

Despite the hurdles, UCB Japan did not switch to conventional electricity and instead found a new supplier of renewable energy and arranged a non-fossil fuel certificate.

Aside from its commitment to sustainability, UCB Japan promotes active community involvement. At the Saitama Plant, for instance, employees participate in monthly “plogging” activities in the surrounding area. This activity is a combination of jogging and picking up litter—a simple yet impactful initiative that encourages employees from different departments to work together. It also strengthens communication and fosters a “one-team” mindset, all whilst contributing to a cleaner community and a safer workplace.

Moreover, UCB Japan took part in its first community project, the “Kasumi River Cleanup,” in partnership with the Iruma City Industrial Association. This effort aligned with Citizens' Cleanup Day, and brought together local industries and residents to support environmental initiatives.

UCB Japan further encouraged social responsibility by launching in 2024 a dedicated intranet site to support employee volunteering. The platform makes it easier for employees to find volunteer opportunities and share their experiences. With this, more than 60 employees in 2024 alone have engaged in Social Action Days, another programme that supports well-being and community involvement.

Additionally, UCB Japan in October 2024 sponsored and participated in a charity run supporting Ronald McDonald House. This is an organisation that provides a homely environment for families of sick children. A total of 21 employees took part, joining people of all ages and abilities in raising awareness and empathy for patients. The event provided an opportunity for employees to connect with the broader community and reflect on UCB Japan’s purpose outside the workplace.

UCB Japan is also proud to announce its sponsorship of the Belgium Pavilion at the Osaka Expo in 2025 under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Through this, UCB Japan will mark contributions to raising awareness of disease and advancing healthcare solutions and life sciences. The events planned for the Expo aim to showcase UCB Japan’s commitment to improving lives through medicine, and engage the public’s curiosity and promote innovation.

Healthcare Asia Pharma Awards applauds the companies in Asia that have redefined pharmaceutical excellence. It gives recognition to the game-changers and visionaries who possess unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence.

The Healthcare Asia Pharma Awards is presented by Healthcare Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2026 awards programme and be recognised for your organisation's innovative and unique initiatives that enhanced your business and remarkable contributions to the pharmaceutical industry, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez at [email protected].