Climate protection in medical technology – working together towards net zero
On 1 January 2025, the Climate and Innovation Act (CIA) came into force. It requires Swiss companies to achieve net zero in their direct and indirect emissions by 2050 at the latest. Customers, investors and business partners now also expect companies to demonstrate a credible commitment to climate protection. Sustainability is thus becoming a strategic success factor – for market access, capital procurement and long-term competitiveness.
For the Swiss Medtech industry, this means taking action – in a structured, effective and forward-looking manner. To support its members on this path, Swiss Medtech has teamed up with act Cleantech Agency Switzerland to develop an industry roadmap for decarbonising Medtech. This shows how companies can take concrete steps towards net zero.
It is worthwhile for Medtech companies to reduce emissions from all sources. This means that they must not only reduce emissions in their own companies (direct emissions, Scope 1) and from purchased energy such as electricity, heating, and cooling (indirect emissions, Scope 2), but should also reduce CO₂ emissions generated upstream by suppliers or downstream through the use of their products by customers (Scope 3), especially since around 95% of emissions in the Medtech industry fall under Scope 3. Large companies in particular are therefore already setting net-zero targets across their entire value chain. Against this backdrop, suppliers to the Medtech industry are also affected. The sooner they get started, the greater their chance of remaining part of the supply chain.
Five steps to decarbonisation – backed by industry expertise
1. Begin with a Carbon Footprint
Start with a corporate carbon footprint based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. You can use tools to help you or seek support from a consulting firm. By assessing all direct and indirect emissions – including those from your supply chain – you can determine your overall carbon footprint (see also information sheet on carbon footprint). Analysis will reveal the most important areas for action for your company on the path to decarbonisation.
The industry roadmap identifies the most important sources of emissions and the relevant categories for Medtech companies.
2. Set climate targets
Based on the climate footprint, ambitious reduction targets with clearly defined interim targets must be set. The KIG requires a 50% reduction by 2040 and net zero by 2050 for Scope 1 and 2. For Scope 3, it is recommended to follow the methods of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). Many larger companies have set themselves a science-based climate target in line with SBTi and also require their suppliers to make a corresponding commitment. The industry roadmap provides examples of reduction pathways for Scope 1 and 2 as well as for Scope 3.
3. Develop a climate strategy and action plan
Based on the reduction pathway, a climate strategy with concrete implementation measures must now be developed to achieve the climate target. Review various measures and prioritise them according to their reduction potential, costs, opportunities and risks. The industry roadmap offers concrete measures for reducing emissions that have been tried and tested in the Medtech industry – prioritised according to impact, effort and time frame. The focus is on efficiency in building technology, sustainable power supply (e.g. PV systems), low-carbon mobility and measures along the supply chain – emissions can be significantly reduced by transitioning to a circular economy model.
4. Implementation and monitoring
Now the decarbonisation phase begins. Measure the success of the measures regularly. Check whether the defined reduction path is being adhered to or whether the measures need to be adjusted. In this phase, it is also important to align the business model and strategy with the net-zero target. The industry roadmap provides practical recommendations for this.
5. Strengthen reporting
Climate-related reporting is gaining in importance. In addition to legislators, more and more customers and investors are demanding data and facts from their suppliers. This poses a particular challenge for SMEs, as they are faced with a large number of enquiries. For this reason, Swiss Medtech provides its members with a standardised reporting tool based on the Swiss Medtech Sustainability Code of Condcut.
Net Zero: A Driver of Innovation and Competitiveness
Decarbonisation is a business necessity – and a strategic opportunity. It strengthens innovation, increases resilience and secures long-term market access. Swiss Medtech’s industry roadmap is designed to enable companies of all sizes to get started and take effective steps.
Study the roadmap now and take the first step towards net zero!
