MSD Switzerland Releases First Sustainability Overview and Shows Progress in Sustainability

Sustainability at MSD Switzerland is not just a responsibility but a core element of how we work and drive progress. We are committed to improving people's health while also protecting the health of our planet. From reducing our environmental footprint to promoting equitable access to healthcare, we contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for all," said Jasper Kunow, Managing Director ad interim, MSD Switzerland. "We are proud of the progress we have achieved together with our employees, partners and communities, and remain determined to drive positive change for patients, society and the environment."

A Legacy of Impact and Responsibility

For over 60 years, MSD has been active in Switzerland, consistently pursuing its corporate purpose to save and improve lives. In 2024 and 2025, MSD was recognized by Time Magazine as one of the most sustainable companies globally. In Switzerland, the company received the Top Employer award for the 12th and 13th consecutive times, was certified as a LinkedIn Top Company in 2025, and awarded the Swiss LGBTI Label for its inclusive corporate culture.

Driving Innovation and Access to Healthcare

With more than 1,000 employees from 70 nations, MSD Switzerland's medications and vaccines reached over 700,000 people and 5 million animals in 2025. Since 2012, the company has invested 162 million Swiss francs in research and development, conducted over 60 clinical trials in 2024 and 2025, and collaborated with over 800 partner companies.

MSD's commitment to improving access to healthcare is demonstrated through initiatives such as PINK CUBE Test Your Breast, which raises awareness of breast cancer, prevention, and patient advocacy.

Sustainability and Environmental Leadership

MSD Switzerland is committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions across all global business sectors by 2045. The electricity sourced for Swiss sites comes entirely from renewable energy sources. The office in Zurich is LEED Platinum and WELL Gold certified, while the new Swiss headquarters in Lucerne, scheduled to open in April, will set new standards for sustainable building and employee well-being.

MSD's environmental initiatives include waste reduction, increased resource efficiency, and improvements in accessibility, including MOJO Gold certification for inclusive spaces.

Promoting Diversity, Inclusion, and Employee Well-Being

MSD Switzerland fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to gender parity and equal opportunities. The company supports seven Employee Business Resource Groups, gender-neutral parental leave, and continuous training on diversity and inclusion. In 2024 and 2025, more than 60 female employees received an HPV vaccination, and employees engaged in over 1,000 hours of volunteer work as part of MSD's Corporate Volunteering Program.

Financial education offerings as well as health and wellness initiatives strengthen employee self-responsibility and promote a collaborative corporate culture.

Ethics, Integrity, and Social Engagement

MSD's Ethics Ambassador Program ensures a safe environment for employees to openly address concerns and issues at all Swiss sites. By the end of 2024, the MSD pension fund invested over 80 million Swiss francs in ESG funds, aligning financial goals with ethical values.

The Light Up Initiative continuously raises awareness on important social issues, celebrates diversity, and supports community well-being.

Links for More Information

MSD in Switzerland

In Switzerland, MSD employs over 1,000 people at three locations in the Cantons of Lucerne and Zurich. At the Zurich site, in "The Circle," MSD operates a global innovation and development hub. MSD’s main therapeutic areas include oncology, infectious diseases, cardiovascular and cardiometabolic disorders. We also have a broad portfolio of vaccines for the prevention of diseases in children, adolescents, and adults. Additionally, we are one of the leading companies in veterinary medicine in Switzerland. At our Schachen site, we manufacture drugs for worldwide clinical trials and operate a forensic laboratory. Moreover, MSD conducts around 40 clinical trials annually in Switzerland alone. We embrace our responsibility to the local community and are committed, among others, to the "Lucerne Health Trend Days" and the "Health Literacy Alliance."

For more information, please visit us at www.msd.ch, http://de.msd-animal-health.ch/, www.msd-gesundheit.ch, www.mymsd.ch, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.

You can find this and other announcements on our website in the protected area for media professionals:

https://www.msd.ch/de/home/news/

Copyright © 2026 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

CH-NON- 03174, 03/2026

Media contact

Antonio Ligi
Head of Communications
MSD Merck Sharp & Dohme AG
+41 76 203 44 96
media.switzerland@msd.com

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