Since its establishment, the Otsuka group’s operations have had a deep connection to water, a resource essential to life. Through products that use water as a raw material, we have actively contributed not only to the treatment and prevention of diseases, but also to the maintenance and promotion of health. We therefore recognize the importance of water to us as a resource and consider its conservation to be a critical global issue as well as essential for ensuring the sustainability of our business. Moreover, water resources are unevenly distributed across different countries and regions, each of which faces different risks. We cooperate with all stakeholders and conduct ongoing water conservation initiatives from intake to discharge (including cultivation of water resources, conscientious use and clean return), in the aim of sustainable water use.

Otsuka Pharmaceutical thoroughly assesses water risks at production sites, utilizing WRIAqueduct^*1 for primary assessments and creating an analytical chart incorporating detailed water-related data. By conducting region-specific research and developing customized management and efficient usage strategies, the group strives to conserve and enhance water resources while mitigating associated risks.

The Otsuka group of companies has established the Otsuka Group Water Resource Management Guidelines to ensure compliance with laws and regulations issued by countries and regions, as well as the proper management and operation of water-related items and standards. In 2024, the group promoted these guidelines across all sites, including overseas subsidiaries, and conducted assessments of the current status.

Otsuka Pharmaceutical recognizes the appropriate use of water resources and the conservation of the water environment as key sustainability priorities. At each of its sites, the company is committed to appropriate wastewater management and water quality conservation. In addition to complying with applicable laws, regulations, and local standards, Otsuka Pharmaceutical works to protect the water environment through regular monitoring and the proper operation of wastewater treatment facilities.

Initiatives at Second Tokushima Factory

At the Second Tokushima Factory, UV irradiation equipment is used to inactivate microorganisms in wastewater as part of the factory's wastewater management processes. Through these measures, the factory works to reduce potential impacts on the surrounding environment and protect the water environment.

The Otsuka group of companies has entered into a partnership agreement for the Tokushima Collaborative Forest Development Project organized by Tokushima Prefecture. As part of this initiative, group companies participate in focused forest conservation activities, including tree planting and thinning, centered on large, contiguous forest areas of over 100 hectares.From FY2024, eight group companies^*3 have developed 8.18 hectares of forest, contributing to CO₂ absorption of 37.39 tons.