Water covers 70% of the Earth’s surface, yet only 3% of this is freshwater, with most of it trapped in glaciers and inaccessible for human use. Consequently, over 2 billion people globally lack access to clean drinking water due to poor sanitation, resulting in approximately 2 million loss of lives annually, primarily among children. This crisis is intensifying, with projections that two-thirds of the global population will soon face water shortages. Recognizing the urgency of water conservation, Getz Pharma has committed to reducing water consumption and preserving this critical resource.

Challenges in Karachi’s Water Ecosystem

Karachi, home to Getz Pharma’s manufacturing facilities, faces severe water pollution challenges, particularly in the Malir River. This river, originating from the confluence of the Mol and Khadeji tributaries, flows through Karachi and drains into the Arabian Sea. Once a source of freshwater, the Malir River has now become heavily polluted due to unregulated human activities, untreated domestic and industrial wastewater discharges, solid waste dumping, agricultural runoff, and soil erosion. These pollutants threaten the freshwater ecology and wetland ecosystems, including mangrove forests near the Malir estuary, further exacerbated by land reclamation practices.

Getz Pharma’s Water Conservation Efforts

As a water-conscious organization, Getz Pharma actively seeks ways to improve process efficiency and reduce water demand. Key initiatives include:

• Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP):
  • Getz Pharma operates a state-of-the-art effluent treatment plant where all wastewater generated from operations is processed.
  • The treated water recovered is repurposed for non-production activities such as cooling towers, gardening, and external cleaning.
• Water-Efficient Infrastructure:
  • Installation of low-flow water fixtures, such as automatic faucets, which maintain functionality while significantly reducing water consumption.
• Awareness Campaigns:
  • Regular internal campaigns and signage throughout the facility promote water conservation practices among employees.
• Sustainable Manufacturing Practices:
  • Getz Pharma’s Astola Facility is the first pharmaceutical plant in South Asia to achieve LEED Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This certification highlights Getz Pharma’s commitment to sustainable practices, including efficient water use.

Getz Pharma’s integrated water management system not only mitigates the environmental impact of industrial activities but also contributes to preserving Karachi’s fragile water ecosystems. By recovering and reusing a significant portion of wastewater, Getz Pharma reduces its reliance on freshwater resources. The organization continues to explore innovative solutions to further minimize water usage and expand sustainability efforts.

Water conservation is critical to ensuring sustainable growth and protecting future generations. Getz Pharma’s comprehensive approach—from advanced wastewater treatment to sustainable infrastructure—demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. By leading by example, Getz Pharma aims to inspire broader industry practices prioritizing water conservation and environmental sustainability.