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Zentiva Advocates for a Revised Approach to Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive

In a compelling address at the Medicines for Europe annual conference in Brussels, Zentiva's CEO, Steffen Saltofte, underscored the pressing necessity for a reassessment of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD). The event, which brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders, was pivotal in discussing how to foster a resilient health union in Europe amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The conference focused on creating a health union that ensures security, access, and competitiveness. Addressing an audience of decision-makers, Saltofte shed light on the challenges posed by the current implementation of the UWWTD. He expressed significant concerns regarding its potential implications for the availability and affordability of essential medicines in the region.

Key Concerns on the Current UWWTD

Zentiva's insights prompted a deep examination of the existing UWWTD implementation, identifying it as a threat to the financial accessibility of medications.

Unrealistic Assumptions Impacting Medicines

Saltofte highlighted the unrealistic assumptions and significantly underestimated cost estimates promulgated by the European Commission. These factors collectively raise alarm bells regarding the long-term availability of off-patent essential medications in Europe. He emphasized that the directive, as it stands, could severely hinder the ability of manufacturers to deliver affordable medicines, which would ultimately affect patients who rely on these treatments daily.

Advocating for Alternative Models

In making a case for change, Saltofte pointed to the Swiss model as a viable alternative. By showcasing a system where costs are fairly shared among stakeholders and where collaboration across sectors is prioritized, the Swiss strategy illustrates that environmental goals can be met without putting patient care at risk. This model challenges the current EU practices, suggesting that cooperative, phased implementation of environmental policies can yield success without sacrificing health outcomes.

Economic Viability of European Medicines

A critical message from Zentiva was the need to preserve the economic viability of medicines produced in Europe. The CEO warned that continued and excessive financial pressure from environmental policies might discourage production within the EU. This exodus could endanger the security of the supply chain and undermine the EU's strategic ambitions regarding healthcare autonomy. Saltofte firmly stated, "The sustainability of healthcare does not only pertain to the environment; it also encompasses ensuring that all individuals have access to the medications they depend on."

The Essential Right to Healthcare

Saltofte's address emphasized the notion that healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. With this principle in mind, he called for collaborative efforts that ensure both environmental sustainability and affordable healthcare solutions. He concluded with a powerful reminder that, "We must find solutions that guarantee not just ecological sustainability but also continued access to affordable healthcare for everyone."

About Zentiva

Operating at the forefront of the pharmaceutical industry, Zentiva is dedicated to developing and supplying quality medicines that are affordable. With a legacy spanning over 500 years originating from a small pharmacy in Prague, the company is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all generations. Today, Zentiva distributes its products to over 100 million people across more than 30 countries, relying on a robust network of manufacturing partners and in-house production sites. As the company aims for sustainable growth, it remains focused on its mission to support healthcare access for those in need, reflecting its commitment to a future where all individuals can thrive.

Zentiva’s call for a reevaluation of the UWWTD not only brings attention to the intricate balance between environmental and healthcare policies but sets the stage for actionable discussions among stakeholders at all levels. By prioritizing both sustainability and accessibility, Zentiva stands as a champion of a healthier tomorrow for all.