Sygnature Discovery bags EcoVadis Award for Implementing Sustainable Practices

Sygnature Discovery has set up a committee to implement sustainable practices in the life science sector effectively. 

As reported, Sygnature Discovery, a world-leading contract research organization, recently received a bronze rating from EcoVadis for implementing sustainable life science practices. EcoVadis, a globally respected sustainability ratings platform, evaluates companies across various industries on environmental, social, and ethical performance criteria.

Over the past three years, Sygnature Discovery has started with a range of sustainable initiatives, such as the reduction of carbon emissions in laboratory practices, recycling of palladium waste, reduction in the number of ultra-low temperature freezers, use of paperless invoicing, and recycling the IT equipment. Moreover, the company has set up a committee represented by non-scientific and scientific employee groups, including the Green Chemistry and BioScience groups. The committee conducts monthly meetings to discuss and implement sustainable practices in the organization. 

Sygnature Discovery is also participating in this year’s International Laboratory Freezer Challenge. This six-month freezer challenge, organized by My Green Lab in collaboration with the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL), promotes the implementation of efficient cold storage practices. 

Dr. Simon Hirst, the CEO of Sygnature Discovery, said, “As an industry leader, we have a responsibility to lead by example and set the standard for sustainable excellence, and we recognise the importance of minimising our environmental footprint, promoting ethical conduct, and fostering social responsibility.

“This year’s International Laboratory Freezer Challenge is just one element of that commitment. As part of our corporate strategy, we have embedded sustainability into every aspect of our operations so we can help create a healthier, more sustainable future for patients, communities, and the planet.

“With over 125,000 companies rated globally, the EcoVadis Bronze award reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability. The award places Sygnature Discovery in the top 35% of companies that EcoVadis has surveyed and we are very proud to be recognized for our efforts.”

EcoVadis considers these four key themes to assess its awardees: how a company impacts the environment, labor and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. They use their findings to award medals based on performance.

By achieving the EcoVadis Bronze award, Sygnature Discovery joins the exclusive cohort of firms acknowledged for their steadfast dedication to sustainability within the life sciences sector. EcoVadis sustainability assessments are underpinned by globally recognized sustainability benchmarks, encompassing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, and the ISO 26000 standard. The ratings provide both evidence-based performance analysis and actionable recommendations for continuous improvement.