Biogen.hu
TABLE OF CONTENTS
*Perspectives from Biogen leadership
For the fourth consecutive year, our global colleagues participated in
ON THE COVER
Biogen's Care Deeply Volunteer Day, which shattered last year's record
Inspired by the new Biogen
turnout with a 54-percent increase in employee participation. This worldwide
logo, the front cover graphic
project enables employees to participate in meaningful community service
represents the many facets
projects and has a beneficial impact in every location where Biogen operates
of our citizenship efforts:
around the world. More than 3,000 employees from 27 countries took part
improving the lives of patients,
in more than 150 projects in 2014. Throughout this report we've showcased
protecting the environment
Care Deeply Volunteer Day initiatives from around the world.
and bettering the community
through STEM education and
Just look for the icon to find these stories.
Letter from Leadership
For Biogen and the patients we serve, 2014 was a year of
great accomplishments. We expanded our leadership in multiple sclerosis,
introduced the first new advances for hemophilia in nearly two decades
and, in conjunction with commercial and academic partners, continued
to develop one of the most robust pipelines in the industry.
The same intellectual discipline and rigor that drives our science
is reflected in our corporate citizenship. Our efforts include improving patient access and health outcomes while strengthening our commitment
to environmental sustainability, philanthropy, employee development and community improvement.
"We have effectively neutralized all the carbon emissions
associated with our business, demonstrating continued leadership in protecting the environment."
We made significant progress in all of these areas – but perhaps most notably, Biogen this year achieved carbon neutrality. That means we have effectively neutralized all the carbon emissions associated with our business, demonstrating continued leadership in protecting the environment.
We were able to reach this milestone by continuing to invest in the sustainable innovations that have allowed us to reduce our operational carbon emissions intensity by 70 percent since 2006. We also funded renewable energy and carbon offset projects to cover the remaining emissions sources, which included internal operations, purchased electricity, employee commuting and business travel, and suppliers of products and services.
We carefully chose these offset efforts, which include wind,
hemophilia treatments is a serious public health
solar and low-impact hydroelectric projects throughout the
and humanitarian issue. To address this challenge,
United States and Denmark, and low-impact hydroelectric
we pledged, along with collaborator Swedish Orphan
power in Switzerland – as well as landfill gas projects to
Biovitrum AB (Sobi), to donate up to 1 billion international
provide energy in Massachusetts, New York and Utah −
units of clotting factor over the next 10 years to
places where many of our employees live and work.
humanitarian aid programs in the developing world.
Inside our own walls we strive to make Biogen an
inclusive place to work and thrive. In 2014, we launched
"Inside our own walls we strive to make
Biogen an inclusive place to work
a global initiative to elevate our company's commitment
and thrive.
to diversity and inclusion. We developed new programs
to prepare more women for leadership roles and expanded
Beyond our environmental focus, Biogen is also working to
our Employee Resource Networks that celebrate the many
make a difference in the lives of patients, thinking beyond
backgrounds that make up our Biogen community.
the therapies that we pioneer and produce to consider the
We listened to employees who expressed the need for
whole person. We support patients and their caregivers with
greater work-life balance and, in response, introduced
a range of best-in-class services and programs to help with
a year-end shutdown of the company and an employee
the informational, emotional and logistical considerations
sabbatical program.
that are part of living with disease.
Philanthropy also continues to serve as a centerpiece for
We also help patients and their families address the
our global corporate social responsibility efforts. The Biogen
financial impact of treatment. In 2014, we provided financial
Foundation made strides in building a global network to
assistance valued at more than $1 billion in the form of free
expand our commitment to science, technology, engineering
drug and insurance copayment support, infusion assistance
and mathematics (STEM) education programming worldwide
and charitable contributions.
with new and ongoing signature partnerships, while we also expanded our grants programs globally and increased
Sometimes, ensuring access requires bold initiatives.
investment in our pioneering Community Lab program.
In many developing countries, the lack of access to
A portion of our investment in carbon neutrality also
• We received multiple accolades for being a great
supports Solar 4R Schools, an organization which uses
place to work, earning a perfect score of 100 on
solar technology as a hands-on, interactive education tool
the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality
to cultivate a new generation of clean energy leaders.
Index and inclusion on "best places to work" lists
around the globe, including Germany, Italy, Portugal,
Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.
"We topped the Newsweek list of
Top Green Companies in the World 2015.
Our dedicated approach to global corporate citizenship
" is a source of pride for all Biogen employees. Together
We are increasingly recognized by respected entities.
we work to meet the best interests of society and our
In the past year:
communities and improve outcomes for people living
with serious diseases.
• Biogen was named biotech industry leader on the
prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability World Index,
At Biogen, we are truly committed to what counts.
and we made the Dow Jones North America Index for the fifth consecutive year.
- George A. Scangos, Ph.D.
• In June, we topped the Newsweek list of
Chief Executive Officer
"Top Green Companies in the World 2015."
• In early 2015, based on our 2014 performance,
we were named the world's most sustainable company by sustainability research firm, Corporate Knights.
• We were recognized by CR Magazine on its
100 Best Corporate Citizens List.
About BIOGEN
At Biogen, we measure success by our impact on the patients we serve. Each day
we ask ourselves one simple question: Have we truly made a difference in the lives of patients?
BIOGEN AT A GLANCE
Employees worldwide (approximately)
As of December 31, 2014
In 2014, Biogen provided $1 billion in financial
assistance to patients in the form of free drug,
drug copay assistance, infusion assistance and
Revenues in Billions
Women on Biogen board of directors
*This number includes free drug assistance, calculated as the Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC), which is in line with
current industry reporting standards.
GOALS AND PERFORMANCE
Emissions Intensity
Goal: Actively engage in at least one collaborative
Goal: Increase the percentage of U.S.
research initiative with a leading academic institution
multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who go through
on an ongoing basis, year over year.
our Patient Services program year over year
Progress: Achieved for 2014 (seven active partnerships)
Progress: Increase of 17 percentage points from
*Biogen has neutralized the carbon footprint associated with our business throughout our value chain through greenhouse gas emissions reductions and
offsets. Intensity measures and goals are based on the amount of resources used or greenhouse gas emissions per dollar of revenue from our 2006 baseline.
Additionally, Biogen achieved and has maintained virtually zero waste to landfill for our manufacturing waste from our owned and operated facilities since early 2012.
ABOUT OUR COMPANY
Biogen is one of the world's leading biotechnology
companies, with a focus on developing therapies
for neurodegenerative, autoimmune and hematologic
Recent Significant External Recognition
disorders. Founded in 1978, our work in biologics
and small-molecule drug discovery has led to the
world's most extensive portfolio of MS therapies
Biotech industry leader.
and innovative new treatments for hemophilia patients.
Our experience, capabilities and passion for innovation
Fifth consecutive year.
have enabled us to build a pipeline and develop
advanced research programs that include exploration
of potential candidates for serious and difficult-to-
Named as the world's most sustainable company
treat neurodegenerative diseases and fibrotic and
by research firm, Corporate Knights.
non-malignant blood disorders.
We are committed to research that uncovers the
Named number one in the world on 2015 Green Rankings.
underlying biology of complex diseases. Our focus is on illnesses with few, if any, treatment options.
Named number 64 on the CR Magazine 100 Best Corporate
Citizens list.
Biogen is listed on the Global Select Market of the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol BIIB.
In 2014, we changed our legal name from Biogen
Received perfect score of 100, earning the title of
Idec to Biogen. Our global headquarters in Cambridge,
Best Places to Work.
Mass., is also home to our research operations and small scale manufacturing facility, with an international
Named number 13 on the top 100 companies to work
headquarters in Zug, Switzerland, and world-class
for in Massachusetts.
manufacturing facilities in Research Triangle Park
(RTP), N.C., and Hillerød, Denmark. We offer therapies
globally through direct affiliate presence in more than
Life Sciences Award Winner – Public Company Category.
30 countries and a network of distribution partners in
more than 50 additional countries. A list of our global
locations can be found
Named number 11 on the Business Insider/PayScale
Annual Survey.
Germany, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom.
*Great Place to Work® is a global research and consulting institute.
OUR MARKETED THERAPIES As of June 2015
Visit our for more detailed information on our therapies.
Indication Overview (In United States)
Control and prevention of bleeding episodes, perioperative management and routine prophylaxis
[Coagulation Factor IX
in adults and children with hemophilia B.
(Recombinant), Fc Fusion Protein]
Relapsing forms of MS.
Control and prevention of bleeding episodes, perioperative management and routine prophylaxis
[Antihemophilic Factor
in adults and children with hemophilia A.
(Recombinant), Fc Fusion Protein]
Improved walking in adult MS patients who have walking disability.
(prolonged-release fampridine tablets)
Previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia, designed to improve upon the efficacy of RITUXAN.
Relapsing forms of MS.
(peginterferon beta-1a)
As single agent or in combination with other therapies for certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
(NHL). In combination with other therapies for rheumatoid arthritis. In combination with other therapies
for CD20-positive chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Relapsing forms of MS.
(dimethyl fumarate)
Relapsing forms of MS.
*Marketed by Genetech/Roche
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE (As of December 31, 2014)
See our or more detailed information on our financial performance.
Operating Results ($ in millions, except EPS)
GAAP Net Income Attributable to Biogen
GAAP Diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS)
Financial Position ($ in millions)
Total Liabilities
Total Shareholders' Equity
R&D Investments (featured in annual reports)
Citizenship &
Our commitment to corporate citizenship and environmental sustainability reflects the best interests of our patients, our stakeholders and the communities we serve. It is a commitment that is built into our culture of excellence and part of what we do each and every day.
In developing our 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report,
2013 and early 2014. We plan to repeat this process
we have followed the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)
approximately every two years. This strategic exercise
Sustainability Reporting Guidelines, known as "G4."
helped us identify and rank the issues that we believe
The GRI Guidelines represent the most widely adopted
are most critical to the continued success of our company
voluntary sustainability reporting standard in the world.
and that matter most to a wide variety of our stakeholders —
both internal and external. These issues are summarized
As part of our commitment to corporate transparency,
on Page discussed throughout this report.
and in keeping with the spirit of the G4 Guidelines,
For a more detailed discussion of the materiality
we conducted a full "materiality assessment" in late
assessment process, please see Page
BIOGEN VALUE CHAIN & MATERIAL ISSUES
Stakeholder Engagement
Patient Health Outcomes
Patient Health Outcomes
Environmental Impacts
Access to Treatment
GLOBAL MEDICAL MANUFACTURING
TRANSPORTATION COMMUNICATIONS,
Ethics Governance
Citizenship Philanthropy
Talent Attraction, Retention & Development
Our employees and their commitment to patients are at the core of everything we do at
Biogen and make possible the results we achieve throughout our entire value chain.
OUR MOST MATERIAL ISSUES (for detail on how we determined our material issues, please see Page
Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation
As a company committed to visionary science and new therapies for diseases with inadequate or
no treatment options, our investment in R&D distinguishes Biogen. Within neurology, immunology
and non-malignant hematology, we continue to apply our decades of expertise to focus on some of
the most challenging disease areas, while building on our expertise to identify adjacencies where
the science leads us. This focused approach and commitment to R&D, where we annually invest
approximately 20 percent of our revenue, aims at meeting the critical needs of patients and society
as we work to reduce the overall burden of debilitating diseases.
Patient Health Outcomes
Our company's success is ultimately determined by the health outcomes realized by the patients on
our therapies, including benefits of the therapies and the services we provide, managing potential
side effects, product safety and product security. The benefits of our treatments may encompass
improved physical and cognitive function, easier compliance with therapy and a better quality and
more productive life. This helps determine the willingness of physicians to prescribe our treatments
and impacts the decisions payers must make in covering drugs, especially newly introduced therapies.
Product security includes safeguards against counterfeit, adulterated and compromised drugs.
Access to Treatment/Promoting Product Societal Value
One of the more complex tasks we navigate as a company and an industry is helping to ensure
that the people whose lives may be improved by our therapies have access to them. This involves
considerations such as obtaining regulatory approvals across many jurisdictions, weighing options
for compassionate use of therapies prior to approval, ensuring that prescribers are aware of their
options, setting product pricing that balances citizenship and fiscal prudence, demonstrating
product efficacy and societal value to payers, offering patient financial assistance and helping
patients find the healthcare providers they need.
Ethics/Governance
Sound corporate governance is essential to sustaining our growth and success as a company and
to maintaining the trust and confidence of our stakeholders. This extends throughout all aspects
of our business, from the way we conduct clinical trials and compensate investigators to the way
we market and protect our products, allocate corporate resources and select suppliers. All Biogen
employees must comply with our Code of Business Conduct, Values in Action, which guides
decision-making throughout our organization.
external internal/external
OUR MOST MATERIAL ISSUES (continued)
Stakeholder Engagement
Engaging with a wide range of stakeholders is essential to our business. We work collaboratively to
understand patient needs, conduct research, protect the environment, improve the pharmaceutical
supply chain and work with government regulators globally. We also strive to understand the needs
and desires of our employees and the challenges faced by physicians and caregivers.
Citizenship & Philanthropy
As a company dedicated to improving lives, Biogen and many of its stakeholders view community,
philanthropic and volunteer activities as a core component of our business. Not only is it the right
thing to do as a good corporate citizen, but it is essential to the long-term viability of our business
and industry, as it engages our employees, strengthens our communities and helps nurture the
science and technology leaders of the future.
Environmental Impacts
As a company with significant manufacturing capacity, Biogen uses a considerable amount of
energy, water and materials in the production of our products. We have incorporated environmental
sustainability as a cultural imperative across the company and are dedicated to reducing the
intensity of our natural resource use even as we experience significant growth worldwide.
Intellectual Property
Continued innovation and access to treatments, and fair reimbursement for innovative products,
depend in large part on certainty around intellectual property protections, which are necessary
to ensure that we are able to make the long-term investments that biopharmaceutical innovation
external internal/external
Improving LIVES
Biogen's commitment to improving patients' lives goes
beyond scientific research and development. We believe it is equally important to listen to and interact with patients, advocacy organizations and healthcare societies in order to gain insights into unmet needs. We apply similar rigor and passion to improving lives in the community.
Research & Development:
Going After the Hard Problems
Biogen's approach to research and development (R&D) is designed
for maximum impact in our core areas of expertise: neurology, immunology
and hematology. When I arrived at the company in 2011, I worked with our CEO and others to help streamline and focus our R&D portfolio where
we could make the most difference in the lives of patients. We've built a unique scientific expertise, and we seek to apply that understanding to
develop new and improved therapies for areas of unmet medical need.
What that means is, we go after the hard problems.
Biogen's research tackles diseases where there's currently inadequate
treatment, or no treatment – the kinds of diagnoses that drastically
impact the day-to-day lives of patients and their caregivers. But, science has shown us that there's potential for another way, a better way, that can have a substantial impact on helping people achieve a significantly higher
"We reinvest about 20 percent of our annual revenues
right back into R&D each year."
quality of life by slowing the progression of these seemingly intractable diseases, decreasing the burden of disease and making it easier to comply with treatment regimens. To develop therapies with the potential to make a real impact on improving lives, we reinvest about 20 percent of our annual revenues right back into R&D each year. This investment is among the highest in the industry and supports developing new research technologies, as well as building the right team to continue to grow the innovation pipeline and advance patient care.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: GOING AFTER THE HARD PROBLEMS D o u g W i l l i a m s , P h . D .
Logical Adjacencies: Strategically Building for Success
Building the Pipeline:
For years, Biogen has been a leader in the treatment
Fueled by Talent, Technology and Data Insights
of MS and, more recently, we have introduced pioneering
Our potential for success is directly impacted by the talent
therapies for managing hemophilia. As we expand our
and tools available to push forward toward new discoveries.
portfolio, we are building upon what we learn from
In 2014, we focused on expanding our in-house R&D strength
developing the therapies that are successfully introduced,
by welcoming five leading researchers to the Biogen team:
as well as those compounds that, for one reason or
another, do not make it all the way through our pipeline.
• Dr. Olivier Danos joined Biogen from Kadmon
Pharmaceuticals to lead the company's gene therapy
As we expand beyond MS, we focus on areas of logical
research group, a team dedicated to identifying and
adjacencies. For example, while MS and Alzheimer's
developing new technologies for gene transfer and
disease (AD) may seem like completely different conditions,
genome engineering. Dr. Danos is a true pioneer in the
both are neurodegenerative disorders. Both diseases
field. We believe that his expertise will help accelerate
typically advance slowly, but inexorably. The basic principles
our development of a world-class gene therapy platform
of how we're treating relapsing forms of MS are not that
that combines our growing internal capabilities with
different than what we're trying to do in AD. We are trying
collaborations with leading research organizations
to slow down the progression of these diseases to give the
across the globe.
patient a much longer period of time during which they can retain a significant amount of function – whether that is physical or cognitive function or both.
To track our advances over the long R&D timeline, we have established the Biogen Value Pipeline Index (VPI),
United States (Washington, D.C.)
an internal tool that allows us to measure the quality of development and progress toward new solutions we've
The Children's Inn at the National
achieved on an annual basis. VPI helps us to quantify
Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C.
clinical, biological and safety risks to determine if programs
provides pediatric patients and their
are generating valuable results that help us reduce risk,
families with an environment where
improve success rates and advance toward our targets.
kids can be kids and where families
Ultimately, in any given year, we can evaluate how much
can be together. Biogen volunteers decorated hundreds of sugar cookies
value our work is creating for shareholders, patients and
and assembled "thoughtful treasure"
the company as a whole. This data supports informed
goody bags with toys for children and
decision-making about advancing research from one
families staying at the Inn.
phase to the next and is used to communicate the value of our current pipeline to our board of directors.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: GOING AFTER THE HARD PROBLEMS D o u g W i l l i a m s , P h . D .
• Dr. Donald R. Johns joined Biogen from Novartis
Institutes for BioMedical Research as vice president
to lead Biogen's amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
COLLABORATING
Innovation Hub (ALS iHub), a new unit established
FOR SUCCESS
in 2014 dedicated to accelerating the discovery and
development of novel therapies for ALS by integrating
research with clinical development. Dr. Johns' experience
Goal: Actively engage in at least one
as a clinician and researcher, his dedication to patients
collaborative research initiative with
and his successful track record make him a perfect
a leading academic institution on
addition to help us in our efforts to bring critical therapies
an ongoing basis, year over year.
to ALS patients as quickly and efficiently as possible.
In 2014, we were engaged in seven
active academic collaborations
• Dr. Christopher Henderson joined Biogen as vice
president, Neurology Research, and is advancing our
(see description on following pages).
work to identify and accelerate the development of new product candidates for treating neurological diseases. He previously worked for Columbia University where he co-founded the Center for Motor Neuron Biology and
While deepening our own bench is critical, we also recognize
Disease and the Columbia Stem Cell Initiative.
that the challenges of taking on unmet medical needs are bigger than any one company. Making an impact and finding
• Dr. Richard Ransohoff joined Biogen as senior research
the next big breakthrough requires innovative collaboration
fellow, Neuroimmunology, and will work closely with
between research institutions, the public and private sectors
Dr. Henderson. Dr. Ransohoff comes to Biogen from
and across industries.
the Cleveland Clinic, where he served as director of the Neuroinflammation Research Center in the Department
Our partnerships with other research leaders such as AbbVie,
of Neurosciences of the Lerner Research Institute;
Eisai, Biofocus, Isis Pharmaceuticals, Sangamo BioSciences
professor of Molecular Medicine at the Lerner College
and Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB are helping produce
of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University;
advances in treatment and expand our footprint to help
and staff neurologist at the Mellen Center for
more patients around the globe.
Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research.
One of the principles that I think sets Biogen apart from
• Dr. Rick Rudick joined Biogen to lead our new
many others in our industry is the way we partner with
Value-Based Medicine (VBM) Group. Learn more
academia. Not only do we provide funding to leading research
about Dr. Rudick and VBM on Page.
institutions, as many companies do, but our researchers
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: GOING AFTER THE HARD PROBLEMS D o u g W i l l i a m s , P h . D .
work hand in hand with theirs to further understand the
and methods, such as sensor platforms and bi-analytical
underlying causes and potential treatments for complex
tools, to better characterize the symptoms of MS and to track
diseases. This unique approach helps ensure a diversity
and measure, in real time, factors that may influence disease
of ideas, perspectives and, ultimately, data, to tackle
severity in different patients. This is something we have not
challenges that a single institution might not be able
been able to achieve in the past.
With new, innovative approaches like these, we believe the
path forward is promising for improving the lives of patients
"With new, innovative approaches like these,
we believe the path forward is promising for
with unmet medical needs. •
improving the lives of patients with unmet
medical needs.
to solve on its own. We have set a goal to have at least one of these collaborations active on an ongoing basis,
year over year. These collaborations are funded, in part, by Biogen's R&D innovation fund, which in 2014 invested
$20 million from our R&D budget.
In Hillerød, Biogen hosted the area's Annual Volunteer Meeting, where more
At its core, R&D is an information-driven capability.
than 80 people discussed volunteering
Along with our investments in talent, we've worked
efforts in the local community. Part of
to reshape our information technology (IT) organization
the time donated by Biogen was spent
to play a more central role in our core business.
with Helping Mothers, an organization
In particular, newly established global data and digital
that supports vulnerable pregnant
health technology groups are helping us to gather more
mothers and families by providing
robust data sets to drive new treatment and clinical
counseling on different program
development insights. My colleague, and Biogen's new
initiatives. Biogen also helped out
Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer,
at the Red Cross Shop by cleaning,
Andi Karaboutis, offers further insight on this exciting
decorating and sorting sales items.
new approach in a following section.
Looking at information technology in new ways has opened the door to opportunities with seemingly unlikely partners. Through an innovative collaboration with Google [X] Life Sciences, we are pioneering the use of novel technologies
COLLABORATING FOR SUCCESS
While our own research teams are making significant
Amicus Therapeutics – To further our capability to produce
scientific advancements in-house, we recognize that
orally-administered treatments, like we did with the launch
no one has a monopoly on innovation. We value the
of TECFIDERA in 2013, we entered into an agreement with
insights and expertise of other companies and academic
Amicus Therapeutics to use their research platform and
institutions and believe that they are necessary to
expertise in discovering and developing small molecule
complement our internal expertise. At our core, we know
drugs to reduce alpha-synuclein accumulation, a hallmark
that by bringing together many different disciplines to
of Parkinson's disease pathology.
tackle complex challenges we have the potential to advance medicine more rapidly and effectively.
We value the insights and expertise of
other companies and academic institutions
Collaborations between Biogen scientists and academic
and believe that they are necessary to
researchers are critical to maintaining a vibrant research
and development program, and we continuously work to
complement our internal expertise.
establish new partnerships and consortia.
BioFocus – To advance our immunology efforts,
Industry Collaborations
we signed a three-year collaboration agreement with
Collaborative relationships allow us to leverage
BioFocus, a subsidiary of Galapagos NV, to identify and
complementary skills, technologies and areas of expertise.
validate novel targets in scleroderma, an autoimmune
Through these relationships, we accelerate and enhance
disease that causes hardening of the skin and that can
how we discover, develop and deliver our therapies to
also impact organs.
patients. In many instances we have collaborated on multiple projects with partners, often over many years,
Eisai – In early 2014, we entered into an agreement with
as we work to sustain collaborations that are successful
Eisai, Inc., to jointly develop and commercialize two of their
and mutually beneficial.
candidates for Alzheimer's disease, which have the potential to reduce Aß plaques that form in the brains of patients,
AbbVie Biotherapeutics – We have continued our
as well as to slow the formation of new plaques, potentially
partnership with AbbVie to advance new therapies
improving symptoms and suppressing disease progression.
for relapsing-remitting MS. In June 2014, we jointly announced positive top-line results from our Phase III
Isis Pharmaceuticals – In 2013, we expanded our
DECIDE clinical trial, where daclizumab high yield process
relationship with Isis Pharmaceuticals to leverage antisense
(DAC HYP) demonstrated superiority over interferon
technology in advancing the treatment of neurological
beta-1a in reducing patients' relapse rates.
diseases, including myotonic dystrophy type 1 (the most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in children. In 2014, one of our SMA drug candidates moved into Phase III trials.
COLLABORATING FOR SUCCESS
Quintiles – In 2014, we launched a multiyear
At the end of 2013, Biogen announced that it had entered
collaboration with Quintiles, a provider of
into an agreement with Samsung Bioepis to commercialize
biopharmaceutical development and commercial
anti-TNF biosimilar product candidates in Europe, including
outsourcing services, to increase the efficiency of our
biosimilars for widely used therapies to treat conditions such
clinical trials. Quintiles will work with Biogen on the design,
as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn's disease.
planning and execution or our Phase II-IV studies as well
as select Phase I studies. Biogen will leverage Quintiles'
technology and systems across our growing portfolio.
"We are delighted to collaborate with Biogen
to expand our hemophilia gene therapy
program also to hemophilia A and to
Samsung Bioepis – Since 2012 Samsung Biologics and Biogen have collaborated through Samsung Bioepis Co.,
advance both programs towards clinical
Ltd., a joint venture to develop, manufacture and market
testing, always keeping in mind the safety
biosimilars. The strategic collaboration between the two
and benefit of the patients.
companies has enabled Samsung Bioepis to build the
capabilities needed to develop high-quality biosimilars.
– Luigi Naldini, director, TIGET
Sangamo BioSciences – Biogen is exploring gene-editing therapies for serious, inherited hematological diseases through its collaboration with Sangamo BioSciences.
A Donation to Transform the
The agreement enables Biogen to enhance our expertise
Model of Hemophilia Care
in non-malignant hematology by leveraging Sangamo's proprietary genome-editing technology platform to
It is our goal to improve the standard of care
develop treatments targeting sickle cell disease
for people with hemophilia worldwide. To
(SCD) and beta-thalassemia.
help achieve this, Biogen, Swedish Orphan Biovitrum (Sobi), and the World Federation
Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (TIGET) – In early
of Hemophilia are working to transform the
2015, Biogen entered into a global collaboration with
humanitarian aid model for people with
TIGET to jointly develop gene therapies for the treatment
hemophilia in the developing world. In 2014,
of hemophilia A and B. The partnership aims to leverage
Biogen and Sobi announced their intent to
TIGET's advanced lentiviral gene transfer technology,
produce one billion international units (IUs)
an approach that could one day lead to a single-dose,
of clotting factor therapy for humanitarian
lasting therapy for people with hemophilia.
use. signed to help enable a predictable, sustained humanitarian supply of factor therapy with a goal to improve the quality of care and outcomes for people with hemophilia living in developing countries.
COLLABORATING FOR SUCCESS
Academic Collaborations
Collaborations between Biogen scientists and academic
researchers are critical to maintaining a vibrant research
New ALS Gene Identified
and development program, and we continuously work to
establish new relationships and consortia.
In collaboration with Columbia University Medical
Center and Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology,
Columbia University – Biogen and Columbia University
we have identified a new gene that is associated
Medical Center have formed a $30 million strategic
with sporadic ALS. Our findings were published in
alliance to conduct genetics discovery research on
ebruary 2015. The gene, TBK1, plays a
the underlying causes of disease and to identify
key role at the intersection of two cellular pathways,
new treatment approaches. As part of this strategic
inflammation and autophagy, that previously have
alliance, a sequencing and analysis facility and shared
been implicated in the disease.
doctoral program will be established at Columbia to
support collaborative genetics studies. This multiyear
This publication is an important achievement for
collaboration enables Biogen and Columbia to
Biogen, and the discovery is another step forward
investigate the genomes of patients showing unusual
for the ALS community in better understanding this
treatment responses or unique disease presentations
disease. This is the type of finding we intended when
and to explore the connections among genes, pathways
we launched this collaboration less than three years
and disease processes.
ago, and since that time we have screened the largest number of ALS patients in a single study.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology/Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research – We are working
The speed with which we achieved this result
in close collaboration with Whitehead researchers to
speaks to the power of our approach to focused
pioneer novel ways to improve human health through
collaborations with true pioneers in the academic
basic biomedical research in the areas of immunology,
community.
neurology, developmental biology, genetics and genomics. We plan to execute four to five three-year projects starting with epigenetics and immunology.
Harvard Medical School/Rubin Laboratory – We are working with Harvard researchers on exciting early-stage projects. These include mapping human protein interactions to yield new insights, pathways and targets
COLLABORATING FOR SUCCESS
for a wide range of diseases; modeling system
genetics to identify new pathways for Parkinson's
disease; and investigating methods of action for spinal
muscular atrophy (SMA), ALS and Parkinson's disease
BIOGEN ACQUIRES
in conjunction with the Rubin Laboratory.
CONVERGENCE
ALS Consortium – Biogen and several leading
academic research centers have formed a consortium
In early 2015, Biogen acquired
dedicated to identifying new approaches to treating
U.K.-based Convergence Pharmaceuticals,
ALS. The consortium includes representatives from
a clinical stage biopharmaceutical
Yale University, Harvard University, Columbia University
and The Rockefeller University.
company with a focus on developing treatments for neuropathic pain.
Duke University/Hudson Alpha Institute
Biogen intends to leverage Convergence's
for Biotechnology – In coordination with the
expertise in chronic pain research
ALS Consortium, we worked with Duke University and
and clinical development to advance
Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology, two premier
new therapies for neuropathic pain.
research institutions, to sequence the genomes of nearly 3,000 patients with ALS. This project,
Convergence's lead candidate,
which screened the largest number of ALS patients
CNV1014802, which is in Phase II
in a single study, identified a new gene associated
development, has demonstrated proof
with ALS (see Page
of concept for treating pain associated with lumbosacral radiculopathy,
Lawrence Berkeley National Lab/University of
more commonly known as sciatica,
Connecticut Health Center – Biogen, the Berkeley Lab
and has potential applicability in
and UCONN Health Center are investigating RNA binding protein sequencing to identify essential functional
several other neuropathic pain states.
modules between ribonucleoprotein complexes (RBPs) and RNA. We are using this data to explore interactions relevant to neurodegeneration and, we hope, determine its potential cause.
COLLABORATING FOR SUCCESS
Scleroderma Consortium – Biogen's immunology group
created this consortium to investigate the underlying
pathogenesis of scleroderma. Investigators from Tufts
University, Yale University, University of Pennsylvania,
University of Utrecht and the University of Glasgow — all representing different fields of immunology —
will coordinate their research activities and collaborate
with Biogen scientists to identify new targets with
potential for therapeutic intervention.
University of Edinburgh – In 2013, Biogen and University
of Edinburgh agreed to a three-year collaboration to study MS and motor neuron disease, then identify
drug compounds that could potentially be used as
Technology & Business Solutions:
Beyond the Traditional IT Team
When I was approached about moving from my role as Dell's Chief
Information Officer to run Technology and Business Solutions for Biogen,
one piece of the company's strategy in particular helped convince me to make the leap: Technology innovation is at the core of our long-term
growth strategy.
For many companies, IT is primarily an operational support function.
At Biogen we are taking IT to another level to drive real business solutions
and advance the way computer technology is applied in the biopharma
industry. Traditionally, the pharmaceutical industry is very good at accumulating data. What we are looking to do at Biogen is not only
find more sources of information, but better connect the dots between
that data to reveal correlations that have the potential to help with faster drug discovery, better design of clinical trials and improved outcomes for patients.
"Through powerful search capabilities and integrated
perspectives, we're able to discover and expose trends and insights that help Biogen scientists get to a better result faster."
In 2014, we reorganized our approach to using information to better capitalize on that potential, creating three interconnected global teams.
• Recognizing that data is a core asset of our company, our new global
data function is charged with mining that information to enhance our approach to developing groundbreaking therapeutic advances. Through powerful search capabilities and integrated perspectives,
TECHNOLOGY & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS: BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL IT TEAM Ad r i a n a Ka r a b o u t i s
we're able to discover and expose trends and insights
and research through the collection of real-world data
that help Biogen scientists get to a better result faster.
from which to glean new insights to both help individual
Moving forward, we believe this will elevate our ability to
patients and advance toward new discoveries.
identify disease targets, design better clinical trials and
understand how patients are faring on our therapies.
• The chief information office, which oversees the more
traditional aspects of IT, is charged with managing and
• Our digital health and technology team is seeking ways
maintaining the advanced technologies and systems
to put cutting edge devices in the hands of patients and
that enable our researchers and their supporting teams
care providers to both improve therapy delivery and to
to think and innovate. And, we're doing it in a way that
monitor and track patient response. Whether through
helps support Biogen's ambitious environmental goals.
wearables or more personalized medicine solutions,
Initiatives such as an increased Cloud presence and
our aim is to transform the delivery of clinical care
right-sizing global server capacity save energy and reduce
carbon emissions.
At Biogen, Technology and Business Solutions sits squarely at the cross-section of R&D and Patient Health Outcomes. With the pace of digital innovation continuing to accelerate, our technology team's ability to adapt, learn and grow is mission-critical for supporting new advances in
United States (Massachusetts)
human health. •
Beautifying the front entrance, building planters and benches, dressing up a once dreary sidewalk and painting a mural – these were some of the many projects Biogen volunteers completed for The Everett Boys and Girls Club. The upgrade pays tribute to an organization that works daily to address significant community needs. These needs include school time opportunities, extracurricular sports and a place where teens receive genuine support and guidance from their peers and adults.
Innovation in Our Pipeline
Cutting-edge science can change the course of devastating
Early- and Mid-stage Product Candidates
diseases. Patients worldwide benefit every day from our
Aducanumab (BIIB037) – For Alzheimer's disease.
industry-leading MS products and our new treatments
for hemophilia. Through our strong product pipeline,
Anti-BDCA2 – For systemic lupus erythematosus.
we are also working hard to bring new therapies to market for patients with MS, Alzheimer's disease and other areas
Anti-CD40 Ligand – For systemic lupus erythematosus.
of high unmet need.
Developed in collaboration with UCB, Inc.
Anti-LINGO-1 (BIIB033) – For multiple sclerosis.
Below is a summary of the therapies in our pipeline.
For more details see the section
Anti-TWEAK – For lupus nephritis.
of our website.
BAN2401 (Humanized anti-amyloid beta mab) –
For Alzheimer's disease. Developed in collaboration
with Eisai Co., Ltd.
Daclizumab High-Yield Process (DAC HYP) –
For relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Developed in
BIIB061 (Oral re-myelination) – For multiple sclerosis.
collaboration with AbbVie Biotherapeutics.
CNV1014802 – For Trigeminal Neuralgia. Acquired in
ISIS-SMNrx – For spinal muscular atrophy. Developed in
acquisition of Convergence Pharmaceuticals.
collaboration with Isis Pharmaceuticals.
E2609 (BACE1 Inhibitor) – For Alzheimer's disease.
Natalizumab – For secondary progressive multiple
Developed in collaboration with Eisai Co., Ltd.
sclerosis.
ISIS-DMPKRX – For myotonic dystrophy, type 1.
Obinutuzumab (GA101) – For diffuse large B-cell
Developed in collaboration with Isis Pharmaceuticals.
lymphoma (DLBCL) and indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, front-line and refractory. Currently
Natalizumab – For Acute Ischemic Stroke.
approved as GAZYVA for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We collaborate on obinutuzumab in
Neublastin (BG00010) – For neuropathic pain.
the United States with Genentech, Inc., a wholly-owned
STX-100 – For idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
member of the Roche Group. The Roche Group and its sub-licensees maintain sole responsibility for the development, manufacturing and commercialization of obinutuzumab.
A Single Mission:
Improving Patient Health
Everything we do at Biogen boils down to one common goal:
to improve the lives of patients. That is the very essence of our company.
And we come at that challenge from many different avenues.
At the most basic level, the clinical effectiveness of our therapies is paramount to our success and to the health outcomes patients can expect
to achieve. In our industry, this has traditionally been the domain of the
R&D organization. But since coming to Biogen in 2010, I have seen and
aided in a paradigm shift toward more fully integrating other functions
into the drug development process, including IT, market access and patient advocacy group engagement. This more holistic approach gives
us important information that we use to design better clinical trials and
helps ensure that when our therapies receive regulatory approval, they are made available to as many patients as possible as a first-line reimbursable treatment.
Serving the "Whole" Patient As core as clinical effectiveness is to our mission, it is essential that we look well beyond just the patient's condition and that we see the whole person. That's why we have put so much emphasis on building world-class Patient Services and why we're developing programs and apps that are designed to help patients lead better lives.
When a patient is prescribed one of our therapies, they can benefit from Patient Services programs where available, which facilitates patients getting started on treatments and complying with drug regimens so they have better overall outcomes. We help them navigate the informational, emotional and logistical considerations that accompany living with a chronic disease.
A SINGLE MISSION: IMPROVING PATIENT HEALTH To ny K i n g s l ey
Where local regulations permit, we seek to ensure that
We invest a significant amount of resources in helping
every patient who is prescribed a Biogen therapy avails
patients anticipate, understand, track and manage side
themselves of our Patient Services process. In the United
effects so that they remain compliant with their regimen
States, where we're able to uniformly measure this,
and have a better health experience.
we have set a goal to increase the percentage of patients
who go through the process year over year. While it may
The sooner a patient starts on a therapy, the more likely
not be possible to hit that 100 percent mark, we want to
they are to have better outcomes. This is especially true
get as close as possible.
for progressive diseases like MS. Through a variety of consultative activities, our Patient Services group helps
shorten the time before they can start experiencing the
Onboarding for Better Outcomes
potential benefits of the therapy.
Goal: For each patient who is prescribed
a Biogen product, we work to ensure that
as many as possible go through our
Patient Services program.
Percentage of U.S. MS patients going through
State of MS Report
the Biogen Patient Services program:
As part of Biogen's relentless commitment
to improve the lives of patients – an effort that
extends well beyond medication – we commissioned a landmark study in 2014 in conjunction with
The State of MS Consortium, an international
For any therapy to perform at its full potential, patients
steering committee. The study focused on a key
must comply with their treatment regimen. While that
aspect of MS care: communication between patients
may sound simplistic, it can be a real issue – one that our
and their doctors. Conducted online by Harris Poll,
onboarding process addresses. For example, several of our
vealed that, despite the
products are self-administered by injection, and the patient
generally positive assessment of current practice
needs to know how and when to do that and overcome
in MS, certain aspects of communication between
reservations they might have about injecting themselves.
doctors and patients could be better. Our hope
We offer training through a 24-hour toll-free number,
is that this new data will prompt crucial discussion
as well as an email alert service so that patients know
about how physicians and patients speak together
when to dose. Medications may also have unpleasant side
about symptoms – especially hidden ones –
effects, especially at the onset of treatment.
which can help neurologists know if they're helping change patients' lives for the better.
A SINGLE MISSION: IMPROVING PATIENT HEALTH To ny K i n g s l ey
Taking a Value-Based Approach
as often as they like. This helps patients track their health
One of the most important developments in 2014
and better prepare for conversations with their doctors.
was the launch of our Value-Based Medicine (VBM)
The initial response to this free tool has been very positive,
Group, which seeks to enhance individualized
exceeding targets for number of downloads and garnering
treatment outcomes through emerging technology,
a high rate of return users.
clinical innovation and continuous learning for the
benefit of the entire MS community. The goal of VBM
The Micro8 tool for patients with hemophilia and their
is to capitalize on new and emerging technology to
caregivers was developed in partnership with MicroHealth,
collect and better synthesize information to improve our
an innovative digital community exclusively for people with
knowledge of the impacts of the disease and therapy.
hemophilia. Micro8 helps connect patients, clinicians, caregivers, families and friends − even the rest of the
We are fortunate to have welcomed Dr. Rick Rudick aboard
hemophilia community – to share relevant information.
to lead this team. Dr. Rudick comes to Biogen from the
Micro8 provides several options for tracking infusions
Cleveland Clinic where he served as director of the Mellen
and patient progress via text, online and mobile.
Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research for nearly 30 years. He has been a valued partner of the company for more than two decades and played key roles in our clinical trials for AVONEX and TYSABRI. His vision, expertise and passion bolsters our efforts to create real-world, practical solutions to empower better
decision-making and improve the way people live with MS. Under Dr. Rudick's leadership we aim to help physicians
In 2014, Biogen launched the MS Visionaries
and patients make more evidence-based, individualized
program, an initiative designed to highlight
treatment decisions with the goal of improving MS care.
outstanding individuals who have developed programs, tools or services to benefit the MS
Applying Technology in New Ways
community. Profiles of these innovators were
We learn so much from the patients we serve – and we
featured on Yahoo Health, a digital magazine
are using these insights to develop and deliver innovative
covering modern health and wellness topics.
services that complement our therapies and help patients
Over the course of a month, Yahoo Health
live their lives to the fullest. To this end we introduced
featured weekly stories of MS Visionaries as
several new technology-based tools in 2014.
well as inspiring personal accounts of people living with relapsing forms of MS who have
The MySidekick™ smart device app was launched in
been treated with a Biogen therapy.
November 2014 and allows patients and their caregivers to easily record mood, energy level, activities and sensations
A SINGLE MISSION: IMPROVING PATIENT HEALTH To ny K i n g s l ey
We also conducted a joint study in 2014 with industry
partner, PatientsLikeMe, to assess the feasibility of using
a consumer wearable device to monitor activity among people with MS in a real-world setting. Results from the
study established a potential framework for the rapid and
effective deployment of activity tracking devices to MS
"Through the passion of our people and
the data and tools that we are putting in
their hands, Biogen is helping to redefine
the art of the possible in meeting unmet
In February 2015, Biogen hosted its
medical needs."
first MS Hackathon with the external technology community. The challenge
patients and subsequent data collection. If an individual
for Hack MS was to develop potential
chooses to share logs with their care team, then doctors
solutions for people living with MS
or nurses can use this information to support clinical
to manage stress. Twenty-two teams
undertook the challenge over a 48-hour period. First, second and third place
I am personally very excited and encouraged by the strides we've made in 2014 in paving the way for better health
prizes were awarded, ranging from
outcomes for patients. What's more is that this is just
$5,000 to $20,000, to help winners
the tip of the iceberg. Through the passion of our people
kick-start their ideas. Biogen will use
and the data and tools that we are putting in their hands,
insights gleaned from the winners and
Biogen is helping to redefine the art of the possible in
all the presenting teams to further refine
meeting unmet medical needs. •
and innovate programs that serve the MS community.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
A key component of our mission to improve the
We are leveraging these findings to enhance our disease
lives of patients is engaging with patient advocacy
awareness initiatives, expand support of patient education
organizations, which provide a critical link to real-world
to underserved populations and infuse a stronger community
patient experiences. Armed with a deep understanding
focus into our MS programs. In 2015, we will complete a
of what it is like to live with chronic conditions such
similar survey in Europe.
as MS, hemophilia or one of the conditions currently
under research by Biogen scientists, patient advocacy
In addition to the following examples of our work to improve
organizations help us better understand unmet patient
outcomes for people living with MS and people living with
needs, shape our discovery and development programs
hemophilia, Biogen also works to support those facing many
and enhance our treatments and patient experiences.
diseases of high unmet need as represented by our pipeline therapeutic areas of interest (e.g. Alzheimer's disease,
ALS and Spinal Muscular Atrophy). Through engagements
We have formed collaborations with
with patient advocacy organizations early in our development
organizations in every country where we
process, we work collaboratively to define clinically
operate and help them advance their own
meaningful endpoints, capture important data across the
missions through sponsorship and support
natural history of disease and share information about our
for a wide range of initiatives.
Biogen has a strong history of working with patient organizations to amplify the patient's voice and support equitable access to treatment. We have formed collaborations with organizations in every country where we operate and help them advance their own
United States (North Carolina)
missions through sponsorship and support for a wide
Biogen and Habitat for Humanity both
range of initiatives. These have included core funding,
strive to achieve the vision of making
disease awareness programs, fundraising and
a positive difference in the lives of
support for organizational development.
others. Our volunteers partnered with Habitat in North Carolina
In 2014, Biogen commissioned a third-party research
erecting frames, roofing, painting and
firm to survey key MS advocacy groups in the United
landscaping to help build homes that
States to help us assess our advocacy relations efforts.
benefit local families in need.
The survey provided rich insights into how our company and our programs are perceived by the MS community and whether they appropriately address the needs of patients.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
clinical programs. All of these initiatives support the overall
with updates in their native language on emerging therapies
goal of working together to develop treatments that are
and strategies for MS symptom management to help them
meaningful to patients.
make more informed decisions about their treatment.
For additional information on how we collaborate with
Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) –
advocacy organizations, please also see Public Policy
Helping to Build Advocacy Capacity and Community
Support on Page Access to Treatment on Page
Awareness Internationally
Biogen has enjoyed a strong relationship with MSIF for years,
MS Awareness Week – Raising Public Awareness
and we've broadened our partnership to enhance our impact
Biogen employees in the United States celebrated MS
in the MS community on a global scale. We provide financial
Awareness Week 2014 with a variety of activities, including
support to key MSIF initiatives like the Atlas of MS Database
live educational programs, community events and
– the only up-to-date online source of information on the
fundraising campaigns to support key patient advocacy
worldwide epidemiology of MS and the global accessibility
organizations. To kick off the week, Biogen sponsored the
of resources for people with MS – and a new MSIF capacity
National MS Society's Taking Steps Initiative–Climb to the
building program aimed at supporting and strengthening
Top event in New York and other cities, including Boston.
local patient advocacy organizations in Latin America and
During the New York event, more than 1,500 participants
the Middle East.
climbed 66 flights to the top of Rockefeller Center to raise awareness and funds for the nonprofit's crucial work in
Biogen recognizes the need to support MS
the community. We also supported a series of live patient
education for underserved populations.
education programs hosted by the MS Foundation in Savannah, Ga., Dallas, Texas and San Diego, Calif.
Biogen has participated in MSIF's global "World MS Day" campaign since its inception in 2009. In 2014, we donated
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Hispanic
space on our website to promote the day, and our affiliates
Outreach Program – Reaching an Underserved Community
undertook a wide range of activities to raise awareness
For non-English speakers living with MS in the United
about MS worldwide and support MS advocacy groups
States, obtaining accurate information and counsel for
locally around the world.
managing MS can be a challenge. Recognizing the need to support MS education for underserved populations,
MS Underserved Populations Initiative (MS-UP)
Biogen has provided support to the Multiple Sclerosis
Biogen is committed to finding ways – through support
Association of America for a new Hispanic Outreach
of research, educational resources and patient advocacy
Program. Through 14 Spanish-language patient education
organizations – to address health problems in ethnically
programs in Spanish-speaking communities throughout
diverse communities. As part of our vision and commitment
the United States, the program aims to provide participants
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
to bring innovative solutions to the MS patients and
communities we serve, MS-UP's cross-functional team
Oceans of Hope –
was formed to help improve outcomes among the racial and
Educating and Empowering
ethnic minority populations in the United States. We aim to
the MS Community
achieve this through data generation and external education in partnership with a steering committee representing top
In 2014, Biogen signed on as principal
experts in the field, as well as collaborations with advocacy
sponsor and official partner of the Sailing
organizations already working in the areas of MS and
Sclerosis Foundation's (SSF)
minority health.
project. This multiyear, global campaign
is designed to use sailing as a means to
European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP)
educate and empower the MS community,
The EMSP is the umbrella organization for 39 MS societies
changing perceptions of what it means to
from 34 European countries representing more than
live with the disease and demonstrating the
700,000 persons with MS. Biogen has supported the
benefits of an active lifestyle.
EMSP for many years and collaborates on various projects
The Oceans of Hope project was pioneered
and initiatives to support the European MS community.
by Dr. Mikkel Anthonisen, Founder of
Key projects include:
SSF and a MS specialist at Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet. Starting
• The European Register for Multiple Sclerosis Project
in June, Dr. Anthonisen and several other
(EUReMS): Aimed at addressing the lack of data on
crew members began stopping in multiple
treatment and care for people with MS, the EUReMS
harbors in Europe, North America, South
project has developed a groundbreaking tool for
America and Australia to build strong bonds
accessing, comparing and enhancing the status of
with the global MS community. Each port
people living with MS throughout the European Union.
day was celebrated with an interactive event,
After more than four years of data collection from MS
giving people living with MS the opportunity
registries across Europe, the EMSP presented the first
to learn to sail and participate as crew.
results of the EUReMS research studies at the ACTRIMS-ECTRIMS Meeting in September 2014 and released a comprehensive report to the public in October 2014. The data collected and analyzed through this pioneering initiative can be leveraged to address inequalities in accessing treatment, care and employment across European markets.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
• Believe & Achieve: In 2014, we joined the EMSP's
Biogen Germany – Supporting Patient Activities
Believe & Achieve program, an initiative designed to
Biogen Germany collaborates with several different
help young people with MS gain access to employment
chapters of the German MS Society (DMSG) to support
and professional development opportunities. As part
patient events, patient journals and other activities such
of the program, we launched our MS in the Workplace
as World MS Day via sponsorships and advertising.
Internship Program and accepted our first intern in
our Italy affiliate in early 2015. For six to 12 months,
Biogen Italy – Empowering People Living with MS
participants in the paid internship program will gain
Biogen Italy supported the National Observatory on
career experience and attend training sessions to
Women Health (Onda) with an unconditioned grant
develop their transferable skills and employability.
to ideate and run an Italian MS awareness campaign.
We are piloting the program in the United Kingdom
The campaign addressed the difficulties of a life with
and Belgium as well, and, if successful, it will be rolled
MS and focused on evidence that dreams don't stop
out across Europe.
for MS, because patients keep looking at their future with strength and positivity.
• MS Nurse Professional: A modular, online training
curriculum to support the evolving role, competencies and leadership of European MS Nurses.
Other examples of support for MS patient advocacy organizations around the globe include:
Biogen Australia – Raising Funds and Awareness
The Church City Mission in Oslo runs the
Biogen Australia participated in MS Walk and
Bekkelagshjemmet retirement home.
MS Gong Ride events in 2014 to raise awareness
A group of Biogen volunteers spent the
and to help raise funds for people living with MS.
day painting the garden pavilion and one
We also participated in the ALS ice bucket challenge
of the home's living rooms to provide
and raised over $7,000.
a change in scenery for the residents. Another group of Biogen volunteers
Biogen BeLux (Belgium and Luxembourg) –
visited a center run by the Blue Cross for
World MS Day in Focus
drug addicted people to help serve food,
Biogen BeLux employees cleared their agenda on
participate in motivating conversations
May 28, 2014 – World MS Day – to spend the entire day
and assist with checking identification
with MS patients and their families at the animal park
cards for entry into the facility.
Paira Daiza, the location of an MS awareness event that was organized by the local MS patient associations.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
Biogen Poland – Collaboration to Improve Access
In 2014, Biogen Poland supported the creation of
the report "Socio-economic consequences of multiple sclerosis in Poland". It was a joint initiative of the
Lazarski University and patient advocacy group,
Urszula Jaworska's Foundation. The goal of the report
was to collect data from public institutions financing
diagnosis, treatment and care about MS patients and
United States (Massachusetts)
costs of lost productivity to society.
Biogen supported The Dimock Center,
which works to benefit Boston's
Biogen Portugal – Literary Prize in MS
inner city neighborhoods of Roxbury,
to Raise Awareness
Dorchester and Jamaica Plain.
Biogen Portugal partnered with the Portuguese
The center provides vital services
MS Patient Association (SPEM) on a project called
to over 40,000 families annually
"Literary Prize in MS". Over the year, SPEM made
within the Boston community.
presentations about MS at schools throughout the
Biogen upgraded the center by
country and challenged students from fifth and sixth
painting and planting new garden beds.
grades to write stories or poems about the topic.
With the support of the Ministry of Education and National Institute for Rehabilitation, this project
Biogen Switzerland – Every Step Counts!
raised awareness about MS and how it affects society.
Biogen Switzerland supports the work of the Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Society with its participation in two
Biogen Sweden – Patient Power and
major events: World MS Day and msrun® at the Swiss City
MS Disease Awareness
Marathon Lucerne, which is held every year as a mark of
Biogen Sweden has collaborated with the Swedish
solidarity for people with MS and their families.
patient organization, Neuro Sweden, for several years. The collaboration in 2014 included a seminar for
Biogen UK – Focus on Disease Awareness and Access
healthcare policymakers and decision-makers about
Biogen UK has worked with the UK MS Society and the
new treatment guidelines being developed for MS,
MS Trust for years to support efforts to improve patients'
as well as an online educational program to support,
understanding of their disease and provide support,
educate and empower people living with MS.
information and education, as well as improve access to appropriate treatments and services.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA)
The EFNA is an umbrella group representing pan-European
EURORDIS (Rare Diseases Europe) is a nongovernmental
neurology patient organizations that work to empower
alliance representing 678 rare disease patient organizations.
patient neurology organizations and build their capacity.
It works to build a strong community of people living with
a range of rare illnesses and advocates for their collective
needs. These organizations represent 30 million patients
Following a wide-reaching patient survey conducted
who are affected by rare diseases across 63 countries
with support from Biogen in 2014, EFNA published
a book summarizing brain and chronic pain disorders,
patients' experiences and best practices from a number
Biogen has a long-standing relationship with EURORDIS
of European countries on how to address patients'
on a number of projects. In 2014, Biogen supported the
unmet needs.
Rare Connect project, a tool for sharing information among
people living with a rare disease. This is a noncommercial,
• European Parliament Interest Group on Brain, Mind,
online platform that patients can use to support one
and Pain: In 2014, Biogen, along with other corporate
another across borders and languages, as well as accessing
partners, provided support to EFNA and the Pain
publications from medical experts and patient organizations.
Alliance Europe to form an interest group on brain, mind and pain. The objective of the interest group
My Life, Our Future offers genetic testing,
is to raise political awareness of the impact of
or genotyping, to people with hemophilia.
neurological and chronic pain disorders in Europe and encourage policy solutions aiming to encourage research, increase access to innovative treatment,
My Life, Our Future – With Every Yes, Progress
improve quality of life and decrease stigma.
After a successful pilot program completed in early 2013, Biogen joined leaders in hemophilia advocacy and treatment
The European Patients Forum (EPF)
to announce the national rollout of My Life, Our Future:
The EPF is an umbrella organization working with patient
Genotyping for Progress in Hemophilia, which offers genetic
organizations to advocate, support and empower them in
testing, or genotyping, to people with hemophilia in the
their health policy objectives across Europe. EPF works to
United States. My Life, Our Future is a partnership with the
ensure equitable access to treatments and equal care for
National Hemophilia Foundation, American Thrombosis and
all. Members of the EPF represent a wide range of patients
Hemostasis Network and Bloodworks Northwest.
and therapy areas, allowing coordination and exchange of best practices at both European and national levels. Biogen has supported the EPF for a number of years and provided grants to support EPF´s independent capacity building work.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
My Life, Our Future is halfway to its overall goal.
SMA and Newborn Screening
Currently, more than 65 hemophilia treatment centers
SMA is a hereditary, neurodegenerative disease that
are participating in the program and more than 2,500
causes weakness and wasting of the voluntary muscles
people have enrolled. Once 5,000 people contribute to
in infants and children. There are several types of SMA,
the repository, scientists and researchers at academic
with infantile-onset SMA being the leading cause of
institutions or companies will be able to apply to study
genetically related death in children under two years of age.
the samples and data, potentially leading to improvements
in treatment and care. To date, more than 80 percent
Biogen works with SMA patient advocacy groups and experts
of participants have contributed their samples to the
in the field of newborn screening to develop and validate
tests that can be used to identify babies with SMA as soon as possible following birth. These tests are able to identify
World Hemophilia Day – Shining a Light on the
95 percent of all babies genetically predisposed to developing
Hemophilia Community
SMA, including those with the infantile onset form of the
Every April, Biogen celebrates World Hemophilia Day
condition, the most severe type. Timely identification of SMA
to increase awareness of hemophilia and other inherited
through screening is especially important as we believe that
bleeding disorders. In 2014, our efforts included launching
the earlier treatment is started the greater benefit it may have.
a public service announcement that aired on Boston's local television affiliates, raising awareness via a social
We also are working to support the development and
media hemophilia campaign and registering dozens of
expansion of an SMA patient registry that is expected
Biogen participants for the New England Hemophilia
to further the healthcare, patient and research community's
Association's 2014 Hemophilia Walk.
understanding of this disease. The registry should be a rich source of data that will help inform the research efforts
In 2015, Biogen expanded its World Hemophilia Day
of the entire biomedical community.
awareness activities by collaborating with hemophilia advocacy groups to illuminate more than 15 prominent
Alzheimer's Disease
landmarks red throughout the United States,
Based on extrapolations o
including Boston's Zakim Bridge and Prudential Tower,
y 2050 there will be about 70-80 million
Chicago's Wrigley Building, New Orleans' Mercedes-
individuals worldwide living with Alzheimer's disease.
Benz Superdome and Denver's Coors Field. The lightings
The impact of this disease on individuals and families
coincided with hemophilia community events organized
throughout the world is staggering. Biogen is currently
by Biogen with hemophilia chapter organizations.
working to advance several therapeutic options in this
The events occurred in a dozen locations across the
disease space. By supporting and participating in many
country, and recognized the day with educational
global Alzheimer's disease organizations and coalitions,
and family-friendly activities.
we ensure that progress on our clinical development programs are well communicated to the Alzheimer's community.
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS ENGAGEMENT
Notably, Biogen participates in the Alzheimer's Association
Research Roundtable, a consortium of senior scientists
from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostics, imaging and cognitive testing industries, and senior
staff and advisors from the Association. Our scientists
and medical experts participate in the Roundtable
to contribute to and benefit from the state-of-the-field
scientific discourse, debate and information sharing in order to advance the field of Alzheimer's research and
Our scientists and medical experts
contribute to and benefit from the
state-of-the-field scientific discourse,
debate and information sharing in order to advance the field of Alzheimer's research.
ALS Biogen, in partnership with the ALS Association, is currently funding ongoing natural history studies at several universities in order to further understand the most common genetic cause of ALS, in preparation for clinical trials in those whose disease is affected by the C9orf72 gene. Upon the successful completion of these studies, we will have carefully defined important elements of ALS due to the C9orf72 gene and established the clinical data and biomarkers needed to successfully plan a clinical trial for C9orf72 ALS patients.
Our commitment to improving patients' lives goes beyond
the treatments we develop – we also work to support
patients and their caregivers with a range of best-in-class services. For example, we've created a number of
programs under the mbrella to help people
with MS understand and access the resources they
may need along their journey with MS. This includes our
programs focused on helping patients and their families understand their insurance coverage and ensure cost
is not a barrier to treatment through our comprehensive financial assistance solutions. In 2014, Biogen provided
nearly $1 billion in financial assistance in the form of
free drug, drug copay assistance, infusion assistance and charitable contributions.
For patients in the hemophilia community, we offer the and programs. Our aim is to provide comprehensive assistance programs to find the most cost effective means for the community to access ALPROLIX and ELOCTATE. We are offering a variety of assistance programs based on the needs of people with hemophilia and shaped by community input, including a copay program, financial counseling, as well as free drug and free trial programs.
We are committed to providing personalized assistance for each individual affected by hemophilia. Everyone who calls into MyALPROLIX or MyELOCTATE is partnered with a coordinator to provide one-on-one support to help tailor resources to meet patient needs. Additionally, everyone on the MyALPROLIX and MyELOCTATE teams has had the opportunity to meet face to face with hemophilia community members.
PATIENT SAFET Y AND TRANSPARENCY
Patient Safety During Clinical Trials
Clinical research is essential to the development of our
therapies. It gives doctors and researchers valuable data on the benefits, side effects and possible applications
of new drugs, as well as on potential new combinations,
doses and indications.
One of the highest priorities at Biogen
is to protect the health and safety of the
patients participating in our clinical trials
and to help them understand the potential
benefits and risks.
In 2014, more than 22,000 patients in multiple countries participated in clinical trials sponsored by Biogen. Please see our website for more information on how we conduct .
Patient Communications For any patient facing a serious disease, the decision to seek treatment must be an informed one. Biogen is committed to openly communicating the benefits and risks of therapies to help healthcare professionals and patients make the best choices. In addition to strictly adhering to all laws and regulations regarding product labeling and communications materials, we also ensure that healthcare professionals have open access to information about our therapies. Please see our website for more information on
Improving Lives in Our Communities
At Biogen, we "Care Deeply" for those around us. We work
not only to serve the best interests of our patients, but also to serve as model neighbors in the communities where
Aiding the Fight Against Ebola
we operate. This commitment is brought to life each day
by our employees who passionately support causes that
In March 2015, Biogen donated interferon beta-1a
enhance community vitality around the world.
as part of a pilot study in Ebola virus-infected
patients in Guinea, West Africa.
As a company focused on advancing life-changing
science, we are committed to inspiring the next generation
Interferon beta-1a, sold by Biogen under the trade
of innovators through effective STEM (science, technology,
name AVONEX, is a known antiviral that has shown
engineering, math) education programs that cultivate
to be effective against other viruses, such as
a healthy curiosity in young learners. Through these
hepatitis C. While it has never been studied in
efforts, we empower students not only to consider exciting
humans with Ebola, nonclinical data of the effect of
careers in science but also to contribute to society in
the drug in Ebola-infected monkeys is available from
innovative ways.
a study at the National Institutes of Health in 2014.
The clinical trial protocol for testing interferon
As a community-focused company, we are also committed
beta-1a in Ebola-infected patients was developed
to lending our neighbors a hand when they need it most.
jointly by an independent research team and
During natural disasters and emergency situations,
approved by Biogen's Interferon Clinical Trial
we quickly mobilize support and deliver humanitarian
Review Committee.
aid to help communities rebuild and recover.
Biogen secured interferon beta-1a pre-filled syringes,
Caring Deeply Around the World
subcutaneous needles, half-dose devices and sharps
For the fourth consecutive year, our global colleagues
containers, and put together customized directions
participated in Biogen's Care Deeply Volunteer Day,
for the handling, storage and administration of the
which shattered last year's record turnout with
drug in both English and French (the official language
a 54-percent increase in employee participation.
This worldwide project enables employees to participate in meaningful community service projects and has a
One year after the largest outbreak of Ebola was first
beneficial impact in every location where Biogen operates
identified, a trial is underway to learn if interferon
around the world. More than 3,000 employees from
beta-1a has the potential to save the lives of those
27 countries took part in more than 150 projects in
stricken with the deadly virus.
2014. Throughout this report we've showcased Care Deeply Day initiatives from around the world.
Biogen Foundation
The Biogen Foundation is focused on strengthening
communities and enhancing STEM education through innovative, interactive hands-on programming. We believe
that a solid foundation in STEM education opens doors
to opportunity for all students, and we are committed to
A team of Biogen volunteers spent time
helping make high-quality STEM experiences accessible
with MS patients visiting Parque Europa
around the world.
in Madrid. The park hosts replicas of some of the most important historic
In support of this vision, we continued to expand the
monuments found in major European cities. Our volunteers and patients spent
global reach of our programs and engaged in new
time getting to know each other, and
long-term initiatives to ensure our investments in
patients let their disease fade into the
STEM have a sustained impact. These efforts are
engaging more young people in STEM disciplines,
helping to build a pipeline of smart, enthusiastic scientists some of who may one day become Biogen employees. After a successful launch of our international grants program in 2013, we've continued to provide
allowing us to build a diverse pipeline of future scientists.
financial support to international organizations with
We also support professional development for STEM
a proven track record of supporting excellent science
educators to ensure they have the tools and resources
education programming. In 2014, the Foundation
necessary to inspire and teach future innovators and leaders.
awarded $7 million in grants worldwide, which includes $800,000 in matching gifts through our Employee
Notable STEM initiatives in 2014:
Matching Gifts program.
Teach For America – A $5 million grant to the largest grant awarded by the Biogen Foundation to
These efforts are helping to build a
date, will address disparities in STEM education and help
pipeline of smart, enthusiastic scientists
fill STEM teaching positions in low-income neighborhoods.
some of who may one day become
The grant will be spread over five years to support the
Biogen employees.
nonprofit's recruiting, training and professional development opportunities for teachers who focus on STEM education.
The programs we support are designed to improve
Students and teachers will also have opportunities to engage
opportunities and outcomes for students of all
with Biogen employees at our Community Labs (see story on
backgrounds and at all phases of their education,
Pageoughout the year.
The World Biotech Tour – With support from the Biogen
Community Lab – The Biogen Community Lab is the
Foundation, the vel
longest-running, hands-on corporate science lab in the
to 12 leading science centers and museums worldwide
nation, engaging middle and high school students with
for three-day science festivals focused on the theme
hands-on, real-world science. Over 25,000 students in
of biotechnology. Formed in partnership with the
Greater Boston have experienced real laboratory science
Association of Science-Technology Centers, the WBT
through the Community Lab.
will run from 2015 to 2017 with the goal of engaging
young people in science and technology through hands-on
In October 2014, Biogen opened a second Community Lab
learning opportunities. Science centers participating in
at our RTP facility in North Carolina. Modeled on the success
the WBT will provide a culturally unique visitor experience
of our Cambridge program, the Community Lab expansion
through several activities developed and hosted at each
continues Biogen's mission to inspire the next generation
science center.
of STEM leaders through hands-on learning.
Swiss Science Center Technorama – With approximately
The Community Lab is a catalyst for students to learn
65,000 student visitors per year, the
firsthand that there are countless careers in science
ys a vital role in encouraging interest
and biotechnology. Biogen and the Community Lab have
and enthusiasm for science and technology at an early
partnered with different programs to help promote career
age. To further these efforts, the Biogen Foundation has committed to providing more than $625,000 over the course of three years to support Technorama's hands-on learning lab, as well as the development of new workshops and training for teachers. This marks the Foundation's largest grant ever awarded outside of the United States.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences,
Biogen volunteers helped the
Raleigh, N.C. – Through support from the Biogen
Mother Mary Joseph Center and three other community organizations
that focus on supporting children.
as able to triple the number of classes
Our volunteers conducted renovation
offered through its Micro World Investigate Lab. In 2014,
projects, painted and upgraded
this program engaged more than 31,000 visitors and
the centers. They also helped raise
students in lab-based activities. The Foundation's support
awareness around healthcare habits
made it possible for approximately 800 students from
through educational talks tailored for
underserved school districts and afterschool programs
the kids, ultimately benefitting a total
to participate in these hands-on programs, providing
of 195 children.
transportation for many of these students.
exploration in biotechnology. Programs include
Kinder-Universität Zürich – For the fifth straight year,
Biogen has been the exclusive biotechnology sponsor
and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
on's University of Zurich), a program that provides lab-based curricula to
Supporting Science Education — The Biogen Foundation
third through sixth graders. This program, which serves
launched the Ignite the Power of STEM Competitive Grants
about 700 children per year, makes lab learning fun as
Program in 2013 to support science education programs
it introduces students to such topics as microscope use,
in public and charter elementary, middle and high
climate change and electricity.
schools in Massachusetts. The program was expanded
to North Carolina in 2014. Ignite the Power of STEM
Strong Communities – The Biogen Foundation also
grants are designed to enable teachers to bring new,
provides grants for innovative programs that address
exciting hands-on science experiences to their students,
vital community needs, including general education,
promote science literacy in innovative ways, encourage
human services, and culture and the arts. Partners include
underserved youth with the potential to pursue science
as a career and create excitement about STEM topics
within the classroom. The Foundation awarded more than $200,000 to more than 50 schools in Massachusetts and North Carolina in 2014.
U.S. Employee Matching
Biomedical Science Careers Program (BSCP) – For years,
Gifts Program
the Biogen Foundation has been a strong supporter of the BSCP, supporting professional development
In 2014, our Employee Matching Gifts
and educational programming and providing a HOPE
program grew 45 percent, awarding nearly
Scholarship award to a deserving student in need of
$800,000 in employee matching gifts to
financial assistance. The goal of the BSCP is to increase
more than 580 organizations across the
the number of under-represented minorities in the health
United States. The program allows Biogen
professions and the biomedical sciences. Many BSCP
employees to double their donations to the
students have gone on to pursue successful careers in
organizations they care about most –
healthcare and biomedical sciences, including two former
these range from the National MS Society,
BSCP students who are now Biogen employees. One is a
to camps for children with serious illnesses,
scientist with our molecular discovery team and the other
to disaster relief efforts around the world.
is a senior research analyst with our public policy and government affairs group.
ADVANCING MEDICAL EDUCATION
Biogen continuously strives for new ways to increase disease
awareness, improve patient access to care and help patients
with unmet medical needs. To that end, we offer educational
grants, fellowships and other support to academic institutions,
hospitals and community-based healthcare organizations in
the therapeutic areas we serve. In 2014, Biogen contributed approximately $10 million to independent medical education
programs for healthcare providers, including physicians,
nurses and pharmacists. All medical education programs are
developed and administered completely independent of any
direction or influence from Biogen, in accordance with our
company's internal policies and relevant external regulations.
Biogen collaborated with five different
organizations around Australia. Our
The Biogen MS Clinical Fellowship Program
volunteer efforts helped organizations
has supported promising clinical fellows
such as OzHarvest, Royal Society
who are helping to lead the effort to care
for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Meals on Wheels, Community First,
for MS patients and find new treatments
and Clean Up Australia. We fed the
for this serious disease since 2006.
hungry, distributed supplies to the disadvantaged, helped support the
Fellowship Programs – In 2014 we donated more
prevention of animal cruelty and
than $1.9 million to fellowship programs, including the
worked to clean up area parks and
MS Clinical Fellowship Program, Hemophilia Fellowship
Program, Global MS Registries Research Fellowship Program and R&D Fellowship Program. For the 2014-2015 academic year, Biogen awarded 16 grants totaling more than $1.3 million to top universities and academic institutions across the United States to support MS Clinical Fellowships. Once grants are awarded, the selection and placement of the MS Clinical Fellows are at the discretion of the recipient institution. The Biogen MS Clinical Fellowship Program has supported promising clinical fellows who are helping to lead the effort to care for MS patients and find new treatments for this serious disease since 2006. Please visit our website for more information about ou
Rethinking
As Biogen grows, we are rethinking the way we use resources like water, energy and materials in an effort to reduce or freeze our environmental footprint, even as we expand our product portfolio and manufacturing throughput. By applying innovation to everything we do, we are confident that we can continue to improve the lives of patients in a sustainable and responsible manner.
Making the Leap to a
Net Zero Carbon Footprint
Being a responsible corporate citizen is at the very heart
of how we operate as a company. Respect for the environment and our
communities is deeply rooted in our company culture, and it plays out in the high standards we use to guide our conduct. We want to be a
company for which our employees are proud to work, and we empower them to be innovators who find and implement the solutions behind
our many achievements in the area of environmental sustainability.
"Biogen is now a carbon neutral company. We have
effectively neutralized all the carbon emissions
associated with our business.
I consider it both my personal and executive responsibility to help shape Biogen's sustainability vision, strategy and goals and to guide our efforts to reduce our companywide environmental footprint. We challenge ourselves to think of new paradigms and rethink the way we use resources, with a particular focus on water, energy and waste.
One of the most exciting developments to come out of 2014 from a sustainability perspective is that Biogen is now a carbon neutral company. That means we have reduced and then effectively neutralized all the carbon emissions associated with our business.
We were able to achieve this Net Zero Carbon Footprint milestone by continuing to invest in sustainable innovation internally and by funding external renewable energy and offset projects to zero balance the rest of the carbon emissions associated with our business value chain. This includes emissions from our own operations, employee commuting and business travel, purchased electricity, upstream suppliers and downstream business activities. After years of cutting emissions by increasing manufacturing and building efficiency and generating much of our own power with our co-generation plant that uses cleaner burning natural gas, we decided to take this next major step.
MAKING THE LEAP TO A NET ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT J o h n C ox
Getting to and maintaining a Net Zero Carbon Footprint
We intend to meet our water and carbon goals through
is no small undertaking. But the enormous strides we
ongoing manufacturing innovation that will enable us
have made – and will continue to make – in shrinking
to dramatically increase the throughput of our therapy
our operational footprint and working with suppliers
production with little or no increase in carbon emissions
to do the same, made it easier.
In fact, this remarkable achievement is really just
Zeroing in on Our Target
an extension of our overall commitment to corporate
Carbon emissions are linked to global climate change,
citizenship and environmental sustainability. Since 2006,
which has, in turn, been linked to extreme weather events
we have reduced our operational carbon emissions
and drought. The World Health Organization says that
climate change may also affect access to sufficient food
and water and the stability of the healthcare infrastructure,
"We realized that we had the opportunity
thus impacting human health. As a company focused on
to make an immediate impact by doing
improving the lives of patients, these are issues that we
our part to curb carbon emissions. It was
must take into consideration as we plan for the future.
the right thing to do and the right time to do it — for society, for the environment
In 2014, we identified that we weren't that far from reaching a Net Zero Carbon Footprint, thanks to the improvements
and for our business."
we've made in curbing our operational emissions over time. We realized that we had the opportunity to make
intensity by 70 percent and water use intensity by
an immediate impact by doing our part to curb carbon
72 percent. And we have set a goal to reduce them both
emissions. It was the right thing to do and the right time to
by 80 percent by 2020, using 2006 as our baseline.
do it – for society, for the environment and for our business.
That means we'll be using about the same amount of water and emitting the same amount of carbon from our
First we worked with respected third parties to determine
operations as we did in 2006, despite real and anticipated
our current footprint. When we look at the carbon emissions
business growth. We expect this will make it easier and
associated with Biogen, both inside and outside our walls,
less costly to continue to neutralize our emissions and
we see that the majority comes from our suppliers. The rest
maintain our Net Zero Carbon Footprint. We are also
is split between our operations and employee commuting
committed to achieving zero manufacturing waste-to-
and business travel.
landfill status in the facilities that we own and operate.
Then we neutralized these emissions by investing in credible, certified projects that were already putting cleaner energy onto the grid. These investments support wind, solar,
MAKING THE LEAP TO A NET ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT J o h n C ox
landfill gas-to-energy and low impact hydroelectric power
So where do we go from zero? We plan to continue to
projects in the United States and Europe. We applied
drive the use of natural resources out of our system and,
our usual high standards using very specific criteria
as a result, make it easier to maintain our Net Zero Carbon
to ensure each project had a current and meaningful
Footprint. And we will do it using the three-pronged approach
impact. Additionally, a portion of our purchases support
that got us here – driving sustainability internally, working
Solar 4R Schools, which use solar technology as a hands-
with our suppliers and investing in cleaner energy projects.
on, interactive education tool to cultivate a new generation
I am confident that we will be successful. •
of clean energy leaders.
"Without the passionate efforts of Biogen
employees across the globe, these great
achievements would not have been possible.
Before declaring that that our carbon footprint is net zero, we took painstaking steps, again with a third-party auditor, to assure that this was indeed true, based on the internationally accepted standard.
Owning it Throughout the Organization Without the passionate efforts of Biogen employees across the globe, these great achievements would not have been possible. While we have a dedicated Environmental Health Safety and Sustainability (EHS+S) organization, environmental responsibility is everyone's job. To drive that point home, each year we nominate and recognize employees for their extraordinary actions to support our EHS+S goals. But only employees whose primary job function is not EHS+S are eligible to win. It is this culture of ownership and innovation that's gotten us this far along our sustainability journey.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
Efficient Buildings
Efficient Manufacturing
our carbon footprint
carbon emissions through internal
remaining carbon footprint by funding
innovation and supplier engagement
credible renewable energy projects
Net Zero Carbon Footprint determined according to Biogen's Carbon
Neutral Methodology, assured by ERM CVS based on ISO14064:3
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
Management and Goals
Our impact on the environment factors significantly in
These goals are ambitious, but we've cultivated a culture
how we view our mission to improve the lives of patients
of working fearlessly to measure and address what really
and operate as a responsible and sustainable company.
counts. We believe our global EHS+S strategy, coupled
We carefully manage the way we use resources, striving
with innovative manufacturing technologies, will enable us
to reduce, mitigate and, in the case of carbon emissions,
to reach and maintain these environmental performance
neutralize our footprint wherever possible. We focus
milestones. For more information on our global EHS+S
our efforts where we have the most potential impact:
approach and a summary of our strategy and management
water use, energy use/carbon emissions and solid waste.
In our last Corporate Citizenship Report, we outlined bold
We are also pleased to report that Biogen did not have
new environmental goals for 2020 tied to these areas.
any fines for noncompliance with environmental laws
Through innovative management and manufacturing
and regulations in 2014. However, we received notice
and greener buildings, we've made substantial progress
of violations for exceeding a wastewater permit limit in
against these targets, which are:
one of our RTP facilities and for exceeding a mercury
limit in a small amount of water that was poured down
• Reducing our water use by 80 percent by 2020
a drain at one of our Cambridge labs. To address these
compared to 2006, normalized by revenue.
issues, we implemented additional controls at the RTP site, which were agreed to by the local authority and
• Reducing our direct and indirect operational carbon
incorporated into our permit conditions, and enhanced
emissions by 80 percent by 2020 compared to 2006,
communications and training in our Cambridge facility.
normalized by revenue.
Manufacturing Innovation Launched in 2014, our Operations Technology and
• Setting and achieving the goal of having a Net Zero
Innovation Group – a cross-product, cross-functional
Carbon Footprint across our value chain by funding
group housed within our Pharmaceutical Operations
certified renewable energy and carbon offset projects
and Technology function – uses a structured innovation
to neutralize the balance of our carbon emissions.
process that focuses on bringing many Biogen departments
This includes emissions remaining from our
together to create significant breakthroughs throughout
operations plus employee commuting and business
travel,purchased electricity, upstream suppliers and downstream business activities.
• Achieving zero manufacturing waste-to-landfill status
at all major owned locations.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
While it's intuitive to think that producing more products
requires more water and energy, Biogen is challenging
this paradigm. A key focus of this newly formed group is driving manufacturing innovation that has the potential
to dramatically multiply our drug throughput and increase
our manufacturing capacity with little or no increase in
the amount of natural resources used.
By increasing the capacity of our existing
operations, manufacturing innovation reduces the need for new facilities, as well
as the attendant business risk.
Increasing productivity at this level requires a smarter
approach to biology, where more of the active ingredients for our therapies can be extracted from the cultures in which they are grown. The process of separating components of mixtures is known as chromatography. Cells in our bioreactors create byproducts that require water to purify. We are using technologies that allow us to run chromatography at higher concentrations, which significantly decreases our water use at this stage of production. This not only cuts down on our water use, but also reduces the energy required to move and purify the large amounts of water it takes to create safe, high-quality biopharmaceutical products.
Our efforts to increase productivity also have implications for downstream manufacturing processes and our bottom line. By increasing the capacity of our existing operations, manufacturing innovation reduces the need for new facilities, as well as the attendant business risk.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
EHS+S AWARDS
Regional Sustainability Award Winners:
Our annual global EHS+S Awards recognize
- Johan Bruun, Engineer II, Process (Hillerød)
non-EHS+S employees who go above and beyond
for eliminating the use of nitrogen gas in our water
their core duties to help us achieve our EHS+S
purified rinse tanks.
goals. For our most recent set of awards, a team of EHS+S leaders thoroughly evaluated more than
- John Kelliher, Senior Engineer III (Cambridge)
100 nominations to arrive at global and regional
for multiple sustainability projects including
award winners in two categories: Sustainability
renovating and completing a fan wall conversion
and Health + Safety.
of our Building 6 to reduce air demand, resulting
in an annual energy cost savings of approximately
The Sustainability Award goes to individuals or teams
$50,000 per year.
who have completed a measurable project or initiative
that improves performance of an environmental metric,
- Jimmy Smith, Senior Supervisor, Instrumentation
such as water, waste or energy. The winners are
& Controls (RTP) for developing an innovative new
featured below, with the global winner being selected
level calibration process for buffer solution holding
from the ranks of the regional winners. (Health + Safety
tanks, thus reducing water use by 55,000 liters and
award winners are featured on Page
cutting the time needed to complete this process by 15 percent.
Global Sustainability Award Winner:
- Our India Affiliate Office's "Green Team" (Virender
- Our Italy Affiliate Office's "Green Team"
Bhasin, Senior Manager, Affiliate Finance; Gaurav
(Silvia Donzelli, HR Partner; Verena Mitterer,
Khanna, Senior Associate I, Office Management;
Assistant, Office Management; Linda Pizzichini,
Davendra Mal Singhvi, Associate Director, Affiliate
Senior Administrative Assistant; Alice Sala, Senior
Finance) for driving sustainable behaviors in our
Administrative Assistant; Antonella Scaldaferri,
India operations. This includes reducing energy
Administrative Associate) for several sustainability
costs by nearly 40 percent, establishing a paper
initiatives. Accomplishments include switching
recycling system, curbing the use of sealed water
to 100 percent renewable energy, launching a
bottles in the office, reusing wood fixtures from
recycling program, installing "green" printers
the old India office in the new office and proposing
through the office and executing a
additional energy-reduction projects.
"Thinkbeforeprinting.org" campaign.
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
LEED Certification and Sustainable Construction
Biogen considers physical infrastructure an important
component of our approach to environmental sustainability.
Getting to Zero
We operate four energy-efficient buildings with Leadership
in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
After identifying innovative ways to reduce our
These include two LEED Platinum buildings, one in
operational carbon emissions and collaborating
Weston, Mass., and one in Cambridge, and two Gold
with our suppliers to do the same, we funded
certified buildings, including our headquarters in
certified renewable energy and carbon offset
Cambridge, Mass., and a facility in RTP, N.C.
projects to bring us to a Net Zero Carbon Footprint.
In 2015, we will launch sustainable renovation and
Specifically, for 2014, we offset the greenhouse gas
construction guidelines that aim to speed up the
emissions we created internally (Scope 1) by helping
selection of sustainable materials and equipment
fund a project that uses landfill gas to generate energy
for smaller projects involving facilities that we control.
in Utah. Our indirect emissions from purchased
electricity (Scope 2) were offset by investments
that support wind, solar and low-impact hydroelectric
Water plays a critical role in many aspects of our
projects throughout the United States and Denmark.
business. It is used to help make our products,
The remaining emissions in our value chain (Scope 3),
to sterilize and clean equipment, in our cooling towers,
including those associated with employee commuting
for irrigation, and elsewhere throughout our office and
and business travel, upstream suppliers and
manufacturing operations. Because it is so valuable to
downstream business activities were neutralized
us – and our communities – we focus on ways to reduce
by funding projects using landfill gas to generate
our dependence on water, recycle more of it, and make
energy in Massachusetts and New York, as well
sure it adheres to the highest quality and safety standards
as projects that fund wind farms in Texas.
before being returned back to the environment.
Biogen enlisted credible third-party auditors to assure
By completing innovative projects across our operations,
our emissions data and our methodology for achieving
we've made sure that every drop counts. Projects in
our Net Zero Carbon Footprint status. Our Scope 1,
recent years have included installing flexible volume
Scope 2 and Scope 3 (business travel only) emissions
manufacturing processes, HVAC water reclamation
were verified b, in accordance with the AA1000
systems, a rainwater-harvesting cistern, clean-in-place
Assurance Standard (2008). All other Scope 3 emissions
process improvements and upgrades to our cooling towers.
data were assured by ERM CVS. Net Zero Carbon Footprint determined according to Biogen's Carbon Neutrality Methodology assured by on
ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGY AND MANAGEMENT
Energy Use and Carbon Reductions
Developing therapies that improve patients' lives is a
fairly energy-intensive process. Paying close attention
Status Change Leads
to how we use energy and implementing energy-efficient
to Innovation
strategies and projects have helped us achieve significant
energy and carbon emissions reductions. These reductions
In 2012 and 2013, we reported that we
are driven internally through innovative projects like
had achieved zero waste-to-landfill status
optimizing our glycol distribution systems and using our
(defined as a landfill waste diversion rate
own co-generation plant to generate much of the energy for
of 100 percent). We subsequently identified
our Cambridge campus, using cleaner burning natural gas.
that a small amount of non-hazardous waste
Materials and Waste
– primarily in the form of off-spec inventory
In 2014, we achieved a virtually zero manufacturing
and unused medication – from one of our
waste-to-landfill status* at our owned locations. This is
Cambridge facilities was properly disposed
in part due to identifying innovative ways to divert from
of in a landfill specialized for this purpose.
landfills all materials and waste associated with our owned
This represented less than 1 percent of our
operations, as well as having all of our major operations
total waste. This meant that we had achieved
located in areas with substantial waste recovery, recycling
a virtually zero-waste-to-landfill status*
and composting infrastructure.
in 2012 and 2013.
Our goal is to achieve zero waste-to-landfill status
In response to this error, earlier this year
going forward at all of the major locations that we control.
we implemented an innovative program
To do so, we will continue to leverage a suite of projects
to "offset" this past waste by arranging
that avoid, recycle and compost our waste, as well as use
and paying for an equal amount of waste
some of it to create or recover energy. This includes proper
from local small organizations in Cambridge
management and disposal of hazardous waste, adhering
to be diverted from landfills. Not only will
to both local and international standards and regulations.
this help us realize our goal of achieving
We're also finding innovative ways to transform some of
zero waste to landfill, but it will help build
our manufacturing byproducts from hazardous materials
awareness among these smaller companies
into useful fertilizers and compost.
of how they might reduce their own environmental footprints.
*Virtually Zero Waste to Landfill is a designation granted to facilities that have achieved a landfill diversion rate of 98% or greater,
by global independent safety science company, UL.
Total Energy Use (gas, oil, steam and electricity in MMBTUs)
Energy Intensity (MMBTUs/million $ revenues)
Electricity Use (MWh)
Electricity Intensity (MWh/million $ revenues)
Renewable Energy (% of electricity use)
Renewable Energy (% of total energy use)
Scope 1 (gas, oil, U.S. fleet in metric tons CO e)
Scope 1 Intensity (metric tons/million $ revenues)
Scope 2 (electricity and steam in metric tons CO e)2
Scope 2 Intensity (metric tons/million $ revenues)
Scope 1 and 2 (metric tons CO e)
Scope 1 and 2 Intensity (metric tons/million $ revenues)
Scope 3 (Value Chain in metric tons CO e)
Purchased goods and services (category 1)4
Capital goods (category 2)5
Fuel and energy related activities (not included in Scope 1 or 2 – category 3)
Scope 3 (Value Chain in metric tons CO e)3 (Continued)
Waste generated in operations (category 5)
Business travel (category 6)
Employee commuting (category 7)
Upstream leased assets (category 8)
End of life treatment, sold products (category 12)
Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Total Emissions (metric tons CO e)
Carbon Offsets (metric tons CO e)
MWh neutralized through Renewable Energy Credits (metric tons CO e)
Net Emissions (Scope 1, 2 and 3 in metric tons CO e)6
Net Intensity (metric tons/million $ revenues)
Emissions Offset (% of total Scope 1, 2 and 3)
Water and Wastewater
Water Use (cubic meters)
Water Intensity (cubic meters/million $ revenues)
Wastewater Discharge (cubic meters)
Wastewater Discharge Intensity (cubic meters/million $ revenues)
Reclaimed/Reused Water (%)7
Non-hazardous Waste Generated (metric tons)
Waste Composted (metric tons)
Waste Recycled (metric tons)
Waste to Energy (metric tons)
Solid Waste to Landfill (metric tons)8
Non-hazardous Waste Generated Intensity (metric tons/million $ revenues)
Hazardous Waste (metric tons)9
N/A = Data was not collected in reporting year.
1 Data includes 191, 945, and 281,977 MWhs of renewable energy certificates and guarantees of origin purchased in 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively.
Of the 281,977 purchased in 2014, 97,691 MWhs neutralize Biogen's electricity use and the remaining 184,286 MWhs is used to neutralize electricity
use within our value chain.
2 Data reflects CO e from electricity and steam use, excluding impacts from renewable energy.
3 Data reflects business travel only for 2006 to 2013. 2006 baseline data is extrapolated based on data from prior years.
Scope 3 categories 4, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14 and 15 were determined to not be relevant to our value chain.
4 Data includes 156,100 metric tons CO e from fuel usage and 91,600 metric tons CO e from electricity use.
5 Data includes 19,700 metric tons CO e from fuel usage and 11,600 metric tons CO e from electricity use.
6 Data reflects inclusion of carbon offsets and renewable energy.
7 Data reflects percentage of total water need sourced from reclaimed potable water, greywater and rainwater.
8 Data includes non-hazardous solid waste from our routine operations only. Waste derived from construction and demolition debris, incinerator ash
and other contractor activities is not included. See Por discussion on restatement of previously reported 2012 and 2013 values.
9 Data reflects biomedical, hazardous and other regulated wastes.
Biogen works to ensure honesty, fairness and integrity in everything we do. We balance the needs of patients, society, shareholders and other key stakeholders through a focused and strategic approach. We treat employees with respect and provide an inclusive work environment that helps them grow and thrive.
Access to Treatment: Innovative
Solutions to Real-World Challenges
Biogen has the opportunity to improve the lives of patients
every day by bringing transformative therapies to market. But winning
regulatory approval is just part of the challenge. For patients combatting serious chronic conditions to benefit from our efforts, they need access
to the products we can provide. When that happens, everybody wins. Patients lead richer lives. Society benefits from a healthier,
more productive workforce with less stress on an already strained
healthcare system. And Biogen earns a profit while returning value
to shareholders, which enables us to reinvest in drug research
and development.
Global Market Access (GMAx): Mission Driven Success
As the leader of our GMAx organization, I lead a team that is passionately driven to make patient access a reality. Our GMAx organization is uniquely positioned to operate at the intersection of science, medicine and economics. Together, we're focused on a singular mission: to define and implement innovative, evidence-based pricing and reimbursement strategies that ensure access to all of our therapies in markets around the globe.
This is easier said than done, of course. It requires a thoughtful approach to balancing the needs of patients with our own return on investment to fund future therapies. And in today's dynamic healthcare landscape, this balancing act is growing increasingly complex. Payers, such as governments and insurance providers, are influencing more treatment decisions than ever before, requiring companies like Biogen to demonstrate the value of therapies beyond just safety and efficacy. We must show that our newly introduced products offer sufficient benefits over current treatments and, in many cases, that reimbursing the cost of the new treatment outweighs the economics of not doing so over the long term.
ACCESS TO TREATMENT: INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES D av i d M i l l e r
In pricing our products at Biogen, we seek to balance
One of the more innovative approaches we have taken
three elements: (1) access for patients; (2) sustainability
in the past few years is to integrate more patient access
for health systems; and (3) financial returns to support
considerations into our research and development design.
continued investment in innovation. As a result, we have
GMAx and our R&D organization have begun collaborating
generally priced our products to ensure that the choice
much earlier on in the process. With payers making
to use a Biogen product does not increase overall costs
reimbursement contingent upon the kinds of data
to the healthcare systems in which we operate. We also
that can take years of post-launch experience to collect,
provide significant patient assistance in the form of free
we have made incorporating more evidence-driven
drugs for indigent patients, drug copay assistance and
strategies into our product development programs
mandatory. This allows us to generate the types of data
that can help advance regulatory approval for our therapies
As a company focused on diseases where the unmet
and satisfy expectations of payers, pricing reimbursement
need for new treatment options is exceptionally high,
authorities and health technology assessment (HTA)*
it is especially important that we get this balance right.
organizations. In fact, we now have specialized health
If we fail, patients may not have anywhere to turn for
economists embedded in all of our clinical trials.
innovative treatments that could significantly improve their quality of life.
Achieving regulatory approval for a therapy means that a given regulatory body, such as the FDA, is convinced
of its safety and effectiveness. It is not a guarantee that payers will cover the cost of the new therapy. GMAx strives to close the gap between the number
Working to meet societal demands for
of patients who can benefit from our recently launched
access to effective therapies at reduced
products and the number who have access to them
cost, we are working with Samsung
through payer reimbursement programs. While it's
Bioepis (see Page o commercialize
not always possible to close the gap completely,
biosimilar anti-TNF product candidates
we work to narrow it year over year.
in Europe. These are expected to include
Coming at Access from Multiple Directions
biosimilars for widely used therapies.
Biogen meets the challenge of patient access through research design, engagement with payer and patient-
We are working to bring lower-cost
advocacy organizations, flexible pricing structures,
versions of important biological therapies
patient financial assistance and free drugs.
to patients following an appropriate period of exclusivity for the innovator product.
*A health technology assessment is a multidisciplinary process to evaluate
the social, economic, organizational and ethical issues of a health
intervention or health technology.
ACCESS TO TREATMENT: INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES D av i d M i l l e r
We are initiating more conversations with payers and
HTA authorities early in the development process of our
therapies, as well. These conversations have yielded
Helping to Ensure Financial
great insights into the perceived value of the products
Access: Biogen Pricing Models
in our pipeline and the types of evidence needed to help
ensure their acceptance for reimbursement down the
• Volume Rebates (primarily in the United States)
road. We see only an upside to engaging payers so early
on. Maintaining an open dialogue with payers and HTA
• Risk Sharing (in some European countries)
authorities is enabling us to make better decisions at
every stage in the development process.
• Price Volume Agreements that cap payers'
We are also engaged in continuous dialogue with
total financial exposure
many third-party patient advocacy organizations. These partners offer a highly credible and growing
• Portfolio Pricing (where allowed by law)
voice in the healthcare system. To support their efforts
• Variable Pricing based on countries' gross
in helping patients gain access to better treatments
national product
and services, we make sure they are armed with the research, knowledge and expertise they need to represent the patient perspective to policymakers and payers.
There will always be discrepancies around the world
In the United States, our Patient Services team helps
in payers' and patients' abilities to afford therapies
patients navigate the often complex reimbursement
that satisfy unmet medical needs. Our philosophy
process and puts them in touch with agencies that
is that a patient should never be denied access
can help them secure the financial assistance they need.
to a life-changing therapy due to an inability to pay.
We also offer a free drug program to those patients that
For this reason, we have put in place responsible
can't access our therapies any other way.
pricing structures that take into consideration the wealth of individual nations. In the case of our
We believe we are on the right track but know that there's
hemophilia factors, we have committed to giving
still much work to be done. Our ultimate goal is to ensure
the drug away in the world's poorest countries
that everyone who is prescribed a particular therapy has
where the need exists.
the financial access to afford it. If we only secure access for a portion of the affected patient population who need our products, we've let patients, society and Biogen down. Because the stakes are so high, Biogen works relentlessly to ensure that patients have access to our products. •
ENGAGING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Regular stakeholder engagement is a critical
content of this report, and we are using the survey results
component of how we pursue innovation across the
to help shape how we continue to create value for our
enterprise. To help inform the content of both our 2013
and 2014 Corporate Citizenship Reports, we conducted a
Engaging with Patients, Patient Groups and Healthcare
series of interviews in 2014 with representatives from the
Professionals – As part of Biogen's commitment to
investment community, as well as with several U.S.-based
improving the lives of patients, we engage with them
MS patient advocacy groups.
one on one, indirectly through advocacy groups and
The following is a summary of our overall stakeholder
professional healthcare societies and through our own
patient services and assistance programs. Our global
approach to working with patient advocacy groups is,
Engaging with Investors – We regularly engage
in part, a result of such engagement. See Page
and communicate with the investment community,
for more information.
both with traditional and socially responsible investors. For the past five years we have provided detailed
information to RobecoSAM and the Dow Jones
As a result of our patient engagement efforts,
Sustainability Index (DJSI) — two of the most prominent
Biogen has developed patient mentoring and
entities that track and evaluate the performance of
financial aid and free drug programs.
the world's leading companies against economic, environmental and social criteria. We also participated
Through ongoing dialogue and dedicated research,
in the healthcare working group of the Sustainability
and through a series of interviews with MS patient
Accounting Standards Board (SASB), which helped
advocacy groups, Biogen works to support patients and
inform SASB's Biotechnology Sustainability Accounting
their continued focus on key concerns. These include drug
Standard. This nonprofit organization is engaged in
availability and safety, financial support, access to drug
the development of industry-specific sustainability
information, expanded access programs, accelerating
accounting standards that will be suitable for disclosure
clinical development and approval timelines, improving
in standard filings such as the Form 10-K.
the success rates of treatment and improving the overall
In 2013, we contracted with a third party to conduct
patient experience.
an investor perception survey to gauge traditional
As a result of our overall patient engagement efforts,
investors' and analysts' opinions on our strategy,
Biogen developed patient mentoring and financial aid
R&D capability, management team, communication
and free drug programs; makes significant investments
efforts and capital allocation. While the information
in R&D, both within our own organization and in
derived from this survey is proprietary, it was one of
collaboration with others; works with regulators to help
many inputs included in our 2013/2014 Materiality
accelerate drug approvals and expand access to treatment;
Assessment (see Pageormed the
and provides advocacy groups with both financial aid and capacity building.
ENGAGING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
In 2014, we created the Patient Center of Excellence
• Lupus Foundation of America
(PCOE) in the United States, which cultivates a deep
• Lupus Research Institute
understanding of the MS patient and leverages insights
• Members of the MS Coalition (Accelerated Cure Project
to provide solutions that meet their needs.
for Multiple Sclerosis, Can Do MS, Consortium of
Multiple Sclerosis Centers, International Organization
Some of the Patient Advocacy Groups and Professional
of Multiple Sclerosis Nurses, Multiple Sclerosis
Healthcare Societies with which we Engage Include:
Association of America, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation,
• Accelerate Cures and Treatment for Alzheimer's
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, United Spinal
Disease (ACT-AD) Coalition
• ALS Association
• Alzheimer's Association
• American Academy of Neurology
• Multiple Sclerosis International Foundation (MSIF)
• American Academy of Nursing
• MS Views and News
• Chronic Disease Fund
• Muscular Dystrophy Association
• Coalition for Hemophilia B
• Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation
• Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis
• National Alliance on Caregiving
• Committee of Ten Thousand
• National Health Council
• National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF)
• European Federation of Neurological
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
Associations (EFNA)
• Patient Services Incorporated
• European Patients Forum (EPF)
• Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation
• European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP)
• Rare Diseases Europe (EURORDIS)
• Genetic Alliance
• Save One Life
• Global Genes (RARE)
• Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA)
• Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society (HTRS)
• SMA Foundation
• Infusion Nurses Society
• World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH)
• International Alzheimer's Disease Association• Leaders Engaged on Alzheimer's Disease
ENGAGING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Engaging with Employees – Listening to our employees
• National Association for Environmental
is critical to the success of our company. We solicit
Management (NAEM)
feedback through a variety of company surveys,
• North Carolina Biosciences Organization (NCBIO)
periodic roundtables and employee meetings.
• Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers
But we do more than just listen. We act upon their
of America (PhRMA)
suggestions and concerns. For example, our sabbatical
Engaging in Public Policy – In 2014, Biogen CEO
program and now annual year-end shutdown arose from
George Scangos joined the leadership of PhRMA,
employee feedback (see Pageor more information).
the largest biopharmaceutical industry trade association.
Engaging with Industry – Biogen engages in several
George will assume the chairmanship of PhRMA in 2016,
industry forums designed to further incorporate
after serving one-year terms as Treasurer and Chairman-
citizenship and sustainability. We are a member of
elect, respectively. This leadership role is more than just
the Global Environmental Management Initiative (GEMI),
a great opportunity – it's an obligation to help shape the
an organization of leading companies dedicated to
future of the biopharmaceutical ecosystem.
fostering excellence in sustainable business practices.
We are also an active participant in the Pharmaceutical
The development of good public policy is
Supply Chain Initiative, which supports better social,
one of the many ways that Biogen and our
economic and environmental outcomes for all those who make up the pharmaceutical supply chain.
industry can care deeply and change lives.
We are active members in organizations that share best
Our mission depends on our ability to discover the latest
practices within and outside our industry, including:
scientific advancements, develop and deliver innovative
• BioPharma EHS Forum
medicines to patients living with serious diseases,
• Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)
and create a policy environment that makes it possible to devote huge sums of financial and human resources
• California Health Institute (CHI)
over long periods of time to fight daunting medical
• Corporate Responsibility Officers Association (CRO)
problems. Innovative products require creative policy
• Direct Employers Association
solutions to ensure that scientific discoveries are
• European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries
translated into available treatments as quickly as
and Associations (EFPIA)
possible. The development of good public policy is
• European Biotech Association (EuropaBio)
one of the many ways that Biogen and our industry
• European Confederation of Pharmaceutical
can care deeply and change lives.
Entrepreneurs (EUCOPE)
• Massachusetts Biotech Council (MassBio)
ENGAGING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Public Policy Support – Biogen participates in public
• U.S. Corporate Tax Reform. To help the United States
policy discussions to benefit our patients and foster
attract and retain innovative companies, as well
innovation and growth in the industry. In 2014,
as the jobs and societal benefits that go with them,
our work in public policy revolved around a number
we must build a competitive corporate tax system that
of key issues, including:
provides incentives for companies to invest in research,
development and manufacturing in the United States.
• Ensuring Patient Access. Sufficient protections
should be in place to establish healthcare systems
For more information on Biogen and public policy,
that ensure timely patient access to the most
please visit our
appropriate healthcare providers, services and
Through the Biogen Political Action Committee, we support
treatments. Biogen worked closely with U.S.
candidates that we believe shape the issues that impact
policymakers to incorporate a policy change that will
our industry and the patients we serve. Information on our
accelerate the review of conditions to be added to the
contributions can be found on the
newborn screening panel of tests. Our work will help
newborns with heritable conditions receive earlier
can be found on our website.
access to potentially life-saving treatments.
• Strong Intellectual Property Protection. Fair and
effective incentives are necessary for continued biomedical innovation and ongoing investment in research to fund new treatments and cures for patients facing the most challenging diseases.
• Advancing Drug Development. Supporting regulatory
reforms, including those that target clinical trials and regulatory science, to reduce development and approval timelines and accelerate the availability of treatments for patients with unmet medical needs. Biogen is actively engaged in the 21st Century Cures Initiative to help develop a regulatory framework in the United States that accelerates the pace of treatments and cures for patients.
Funding Our Future
Through Human Capital
Biogen is only as great as the people we attract, develop and
retain. As a company on the forefront of cutting-edge science and
medicine, our business depends on innovative thinking from passionate people who care deeply for the patients we serve.
Today, the pharmaceutical industry is facing headwinds it has never
before experienced. The dynamic of how we do business is changing.
The goal of meeting unmet medical needs has grown more complex in an environment where drug companies are increasingly being
asked to prove not only the safety and effectiveness of their products,
but the economic and societal benefits as well. In this period of
incredible change, human capital will differentiate us in an industry
where expectations to perform keep rising.
Ensuring that we have the right people and programs in place to navigate this emerging environment is no small feat. But as I reflect on the advancements we made in 2014 to improve our company's learning strategy and the pipeline and development of talent, I'm confident that our business is poised for continued growth.
Turning Learning into Leadership In 2014, we established the position of Chief Learning Officer to work closely with our executive team to ensure that our talent development agenda aligns with our corporate strategy. As a result, we've established the Biogen University Advisory Board – a group comprising senior leaders who are tasked with advising, funding and directing our overall approach for delivering learning inside the company. Through this initiative, we've evolved what was once a highly decentralized structure into a more centralized learning function that can develop employees at Biogen more efficiently and effectively.
FUNDING OUR FUTURE THROUGH HUMAN CAPITAL Ke n D i P i et ro
We nearly doubled participation in our Leading at Biogen
since gone much deeper into the organization around the
(LAB) program, a leadership course for high-potential
world. We've also developed career model frameworks for
individuals at Biogen that I co-teach alongside our CEO
a broad set of functions within Biogen that outline the core
George Scangos. This six-day intensive course not only
competencies and experiences needed to grow a career here.
imparts fundamental leadership skills and strategies
Embracing Differences, Driving Innovation
to these rising stars, but also gives us insights into
Beyond learning, we have also invested in programs that
the talent within our company. By the fall of 2015,
support a diverse workforce and inclusive culture at Biogen.
we expect more than 45 employees will have completed
This includes cultivating a strong network of female leaders
this program. These alumni will essentially serve as
within our company. In 2014, we partnered with professors
an extension of our leadership team, working on key
at Babson College specializing in teaching entrepreneurship
projects and initiatives that give them the opportunity
to develop our company's first leadership program designed
to test their leadership skills while solving real-world
specifically for high-potential women at Biogen. We will be
business challenges at Biogen.
piloting this program with our first group of 20 women in 2015.
We have also launched Raising the Bar: Advancing Women
"We have launched Raising the Bar:
Advancing Women on Boards, a pilot
on Boards, a pilot program introduced in early 2015 to sponsor high-potential female leaders to take on roles on
program introduced in early 2015 to
corporate boards. Women hold less than 20 percent of
sponsor high-potential female leaders
Fortune 500 board seats and approximately 10 percent
to take on roles on corporate boards.
of board roles in biotech companies. There is an immense
pool of talented, but underutilized women eager to help
We've also listened to our current employees
companies succeed at the highest level. While the program
and developed new initiatives to help them better
is still in its infancy, we've already secured two board
understand how to advance their career at Biogen. In
placements through this initiative.
2014, we launched a small task force to research who succeeds at Biogen and why. We are currently sorting
These kinds of innovative programs, coupled with our
through this data for insights that will help us make
Global Diversity + Inclusion initiative and growing Employee
better development decisions.
Resource Networks, have established Biogen as a leader in advancing diversity and inclusion as a strategic imperative.
We have also expanded our Organization and Human
This is reflected in the increasing percentage of employees
Resource Planning (OHRP) process, an initiative that
who – based on surveys conducted over the past several
leads to rich, constructive conversation with managers
years – believe Biogen recognizes and respects the value
and direct reports about their potential assessment,
of human differences. And externally, Biogen continues
as well as the development actions needed to progress
to be recognized as a great place to work.
to the next step in their career. When we first launched OHRP in 2013, we kept it at a fairly high level, but we've
FUNDING OUR FUTURE THROUGH HUMAN CAPITAL Ke n D i P i et ro
Building for our Future:
Attracting and Retaining the Very Best
Biogen offers both traditional and nontraditional
talent landscaping initiative in 2014 to build a deep
benefits and rewards to help keep employees engaged
familiarity with talent pools across the biotechnology
and satisfied, while also maintaining a healthy work-
industry. By developing an understanding of who the
life balance. For example, we introduced a new Global
best people in the industry are and evaluating their
Sabbatical Program in 2014. After six years of service
potential to help Biogen, we're deepening our pipeline
to the company, Biogen employees are now eligible
of candidates for future positions within our company.
for a four-week fully paid sabbatical leave. Thoughtfully
We have made tremendous strides in 2014, but there
disconnecting from work for an extended period to pursue
will always be more to accomplish. Biogen is fundamentally
personal interests leaves employees energized and ready
dependent on attracting and retaining the very best
to immerse themselves when they return. That belief has
people, instilling in them a sense of mission and wrapping
been reinforced by feedback from the first group to take
it around an extraordinary culture. We must get this
advantage of this program.
combination right. Because, as I like to remind myself and
other company leaders, at the end of each day our strategy walks out the door and every morning it walks back in. •
"I like to remind myself and other
company leaders, at the end of each
day our strategy walks out the door and every morning it walks back in."
We have also made enhancements to our long-term incentive program to better resonate with our senior leaders and give them more ownership in the success of our company. Even as other companies have moved away from long-term incentives, we continue to grant them broadly as a way to align our interests with the interests of our shareholders while also rewarding our best employees for their performance.
But as we look to grow our ability to improve the lives of patients, we know we need to be even more strategic in how we identify and attract the best and brightest minds to Biogen. To that end, we launched our competitive
Our future as a company depends upon a workplace
that enables our employees to grow their careers and
achieve their objectives — both at work and outside the office. When this happens, everyone benefits.
To this end, we embrace a global Culture of Excellence
through collaboration, innovation, development, diversity,
recognition and work-life balance.
We embrace top talent from all backgrounds
and foster a work environment where all
employees feel empowered to do their
best work.
Our people are our foundation, and we draw our entrepreneurial spirit from the energy of a team with different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences. We have worked hard to infuse Diversity + Inclusion principles and practices into our global culture. We embrace top talent from all backgrounds and foster a work environment where all employees feel empowered to do their best work.
continues to guide our efforts to move our D+I initiative forward and enhance our position as a great place to work
In early 2014, we launched our Global Diversity +
for people of all backgrounds.
Inclusion (D+I) initiative to elevate our company's commitment to diversity and inclusion. We set out to
prepare more women for leadership roles, integrate the
In 2014, for the second consecutive year, we achieved a perfect
needs of diverse patients, encourage supplier diversity,
score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign's (HRC) Corporate
train our managers in inclusive leadership and further
Equality Index and were named one of HRC's Best Places to
develop our Employee Resource Networks (ERNs).
Work. The Corporate Equality Index is a widely recognized,
We've made significant progress in these areas,
national benchmarking tool for corporate policies and practices
and we continue to measure our impact.
related to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees. In 2014, we were also recognized as a best place to work by
Our D+I Strategic Council – a group of 18 men
the , as a leader
and women drawn from across our business –
in diversity by the and nominated
for our commitment to supporting
BIG CHAMPIONS OF
employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve.
INCLUSION AWARDS
Supporting Underserved MS Patients
Our Underserved Populations Initiative seeks to
Our "BIG Champions of Inclusion" program
improve MS outcomes among racial and ethnic minority
identifies and recognizes employees who
promote diversity and inclusion in their
populations in the United States. In collaboration with
day-to-day work. In 2014, we received more
an external steering committee, we are working across
than 350 inspiring nominations and honored
functional groups within Biogen to launch programs
five individuals for their outstanding
that help ensure under-represented MS populations
contributions. The awardees were:
have access to the information and treatment they
need. Launched in 2014, this initiative focuses on:
• Giuseppe Banfi for encouraging everyone in the Milan office to share their insights and
opinions, accept ideas from colleagues and
• Data Generation: Increase the availability of information
participate in inter-departmental discussions.
on clinical outcomes and treatment responses in minority populations.
• Roger Carter for helping the ERNs develop TeamNet sites and distribution lists and
• External Education: Increase awareness of MS among
recruiting others to help by matching their
minority populations and improve the availability of
interests and skills with opportunities.
educational resources tailored to their specific needs.
• Kurt Kreiter for providing opportunities for team members to explore and understand
• Internal Education: Increase our awareness of the
their competencies, ensure they realize why
needs of MS patients in minority populations and
they're successful in certain areas and how
lead efforts to address them.
they can replicate success.
As part of this initiative, a group of Biogen leaders recently
• Pamela Haire for creating and
traveled to the Caribbean Neurology Center in San Juan,
implementing programs to innovate
Puerto Rico, to identify ways we can meet the medical
and empower employees and for co-leading our Women's Innovation Network (WIN)
needs of MS patients in the Hispanic community.
RTP chapter.
• Lisa Amaya Price for creating the name "WIN" and inspiring her team to do their best and be inclusive of what everyone brings to the table.
Encouraging Inclusive Leadership
We believe that there are certain attributes and
Advancing Women's Leadership
behaviors required to foster a workplace where
To continue to thrive as a company and an industry,
everyone's contributions are recognized and valued.
we must advance leadership opportunities for women.
To bring these to life, we provide our managers with the
Women currently make up just over half of our global
opportunity to test and improve their leadership through an
workforce and about 40 percent of our management team.
e-learning program called Becoming an Inclusive Leader.
Employees use a workbook to record their insights
We conducted a survey on women's
and commitments as they move through online course
leadership with female executives and
modules. Throughout the course, employees conduct
directors within Biogen to understand the
self-assessments, create a plan of action related to
experiences of emerging women leaders.
the course content, and plan discussions with their managers and peers on how to promote more inclusive
Our Women's Innovation Network (WIN) Employee
Resource Group provides opportunities for women to network, learn, seek out mentors and develop their
Employee Resource Networks
careers. Though primarily focused on women's careers
Our employees have the opportunity to participate in ERNs
and leadership, WIN proactively recruits and welcomes
for people with shared characteristics or life experiences,
employees of all gender identities who wish to act as allies.
and all supporters are welcome to join any network to help
WIN has approximately 1,200 members, both women
advance the inclusion of others. Each of our employees
and men, in chapters at all our major offices worldwide.
that participated in our ERNs in 2014 helped embed our D+I commitment throughout Biogen.
In 2014, we also laid the groundwork to launch our Women's Leadership Program, a new leadership
U.S. Military Veterans Employee Resource Network
development program for high-potential women employees.
Launched on Veterans Day in 2014, our newest ERN
We conducted a survey on women's leadership with female
provides U.S. veterans and members of military families
executives and directors within Biogen to understand
with a platform to connect and educate others about their
the experiences of emerging women leaders, potential
unique background and experience. This group helps
challenges to their advancement, and ways to better
veterans translate their experience to the workforce and
leverage the talents of women.
raise awareness within Biogen of how individuals with military backgrounds can enhance our teams. In 2015,
Based on this feedback, we developed the Women's
this organization will strive to grow its membership and
Leadership Program in collaboration with Babson
continue attracting the interest of talented veterans,
College's Center for Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership.
adding to our already diverse community.
This program focuses on enhancing the careers of
high-potential, emerging women leaders in management
working environment for LGBTQ employees and exemplify
positions and develops a talent pipeline to fill future
our commitment to social responsibility and innovation.
senior leadership positions. Taught by faculty at the
Among other milestones, in 2014, this group helped us
college, the program includes in-class curriculum as
become one of the few companies in the United States
well as hand-on development activities related to each
to offer employees transgender health coverage that
participant's current role.
includes gender reassignment surgery.
Twenty high-potential women leaders from
Mosaic Employee Resource Network
cross-functional areas of our company were selected
Mosaic focuses on opportunities to celebrate and learn
to participate in the pilot program, which launched
from the multicultural backgrounds of Biogen employees.
in January 2015. Initial feedback is overwhelmingly
The group fosters awareness, appreciation and collaboration
positive, and we look forward to reporting the pilot's
by encouraging members to develop a richer understanding
outcomes in 2015.
of one another's cultural heritages and identities. Our U.S. chapters have attracted both immigrants and people who
ReachOUT Employee Resource Network
trace their American ancestry back generations, while our
ReachOUT is our network for lesbian, gay, bisexual,
European chapters celebrate the diversity of often dozens
transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) employees,
of nations represented in a single worksite. Mosaic also
along with their straight allies. This organization works
sponsors cultural events hosted at our Cambridge, RTP and
to increase awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ
Hillerød locations to celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our
community within Biogen, support a best-in-class
employees with a different cultural theme each month.
DIVERSITY AT BIOGEN (in percent)
(defined as Director and
(defined as Director
above in all locations)
and above in the United
(defined as Director and
above in all locations)
CREATING A GREAT WORK ENVIRONMENT B eyo n d B e n e f i t s
Rewarding Great Work
Biogen offers a comprehensive employee incentive
program – one that goes "beyond benefits" and is highly competitive with other biotechnology and pharmaceutical
leaders. It features valuable protection so employees can
focus on their careers, knowing that there are incentives
available to them to encourage success. The program
focuses on these key areas:
• Protecting Employee Health – Our program features
preventive care and wellness programs and access
to comprehensive care and services.
• Protecting Employee Income – Biogen automatically
provides company-paid life insurance and disability coverage. If needed, employees can supplement this coverage to be sure they have the right level of financial security.
• Balancing Work and Personal Life – Biogen offers
a range of individual and family support programs designed to help employees manage life's daily responsibilities and challenges.
• Planning for the Future – Biogen offers a variety
of programs to help employees with their financial well-being and assist them with planning for a secure financial future.
• Recognizing Commitment and Contributions –
Visit our website for more information about
Biogen's BIG recognition program is designed to
encourage and enable timely and personalized
recognition. Awards range from peer-to-peer thanks for a job well done to service awards for continued commitment to the company.
Employee Health and Safety A key component of our commitment to acting
responsibly is constantly striving to find new and
innovative ways to ensure a safer, healthier and more pleasant environment for our employees and visitors.
We are continuously challenging ourselves to provide
and foster a culture where health and safety are the norm.
As a growing, international company, we recognize the importance of having a world-class EHS+S management
model and delivering exceptional performance. Our goal
is to create a workplace that is free from disabling injuries,
and our updated EHS+S Management System helps us
do that efficiently and effectively. See Pageor a visualization of that system.
EHS+S Mission:
We will develop and manufacture
therapies, as well as design, build and operate our facilities in ways that maintain a safe and healthful workplace; conserve energy, water and raw materials; and prevent harm to public health and the environment. We will establish and maintain effective procedures and systems to adhere to these principles and track progress against our
EHS+S strategy.
EHS+S Policies:
- -
Global EHS+S Management Standards
Objectives & Targets
Event Reporting &
Preventive Action
Inspections & Audits
Global Operational Control Standards
EHS+S Planning and Operating Strategy: A key element of the Biogen management system is our annual global EHS+S planning
process. Each year, the company updates its three-year strategic EHS+S plan based on current progress, emerging issues and
internal and external stakeholder feedback. Company objectives are integrated into corporatewide and facility-level EHS+S plans to create global alignment and focus. For more information on the environmental and product stewardship aspects of
our strategy, please see Pagespectively.
Mitigate Operational Risk Focus EHS+S resources on identifying and mitigating risks
that involve physical or health hazards with the potential to
cause significant injuries, illnesses or death, or that that may significantly impact the environment or surrounding communities.
Improve the EHS+S Management System
Leverage Sustainability Opportunities
Our FIVE
Improve the effectiveness and efficiency
Identify and manage emerging
of the Global EHS+S function through
sustainability related risks and opportunities
smart investments in programs, initiatives
to improve our environmental and social
and processes.
4 Promote a Culture of Safety and Health
Identify and Manage
Extend and improve existing safety culture through
"Product Stewardship" Obligations
employee engagement and middle management
Assess and mitigate social and environmental
ownership of roles and responsibilities. Positively
risks associated with the development,
impact employee lives through holistic and
manufacturing and use of our products.
integrative wellness initiatives.
Our Health and Safety Culture
We believe the best way to cultivate a culture of health, safety and wellness is to empower
our employees and recognize those who champion this culture. Each year, our EHS+S Awards
honor employees who voluntarily go beyond their duties to promote a better workplace. To qualify
for these awards, the employee's primary job responsibilities must be outside of EHS+S.
The Health + Safety Award distinguishes an employee or team who has positively influenced
internal health and safety behaviors, demonstrated leadership or raised awareness of key health
and safety issues, reduced the risk of an identified hazard, or improved our company's health or safety
performance. We have highlighted the Health + Safety Award winners here, and more information on the
Sustainability Award and its winners can be found on Page
Our Global Health + Safety Award Winner for 2014 was Willy Thomsen (Hillerød) for making a positive impact
on the health and safety culture during a key construction-related project.
Our 2015 Regional Health + Safety Award Winners:
• Renata Lopes (Japan, Australia and Emerging
• Rich Toniazzo (RTP) for being instrumental in the
Markets) for looking for ways to provide employees
implementation of the graphical lockout/tagout
with better working conditions and benefits,
program at the Oral Solid Dose (OSD) site for
emphasizing the importance of having a healthy
the Manufacturing group and being an active
balance between work and personal life.
member of the OSD Safety Committee.
• Kenneth Romig (Cambridge) for leveraging
• Andrea Trementozzi (Cambridge) for establishing
his manufacturing safety expertise to conduct
safe waste handling and personal protective
new employee training and mentoring less
equipment practices for the new Oral Drug
• Tanja Ruah (Germany) for initiating Biogen's
• Mike Casey, Mike Cole, Allison Groseclose,
participation in the Munich city run, B2RUN,
Jack Kane, Chien Lin, Keith Melchiors and
forming a weekly running group and raising
Mark Von Bokern (RTP) for identifying a more
awareness about the importance of personal
efficient lockout/tagout solution that uses a
single isolation point rather than a traditional multipoint approach, setting a precedent for
• Marianne Strickler Binder (Zug) for introducing new
similar future equipment and process designs.
employees to important health and safety topics and assisting employees with ergonomic seating.
Enhancing EHS+S Culture in our Affiliate Offices
systems-related changes are needed. Our goal to
Biogen provides a safe and healthy workplace for all of our
reduce our DACR by 80 percent by 2020 (compared
employees at each of our locations. In 2014, we created
to our 2006 baseline) is still relevant and achievable.
the EHS+S in Affiliate Offices Guide to tailor the relevant
Fleet – In 2014, our Accidents per Million Miles rate
aspects of our global health and safety program to these
increased over 2013. It is Biogen's policy to provide
smaller, office-type environments where occupational
a company vehicle to field-based employees who have
hazards are relatively low. Because our affiliate offices
an ongoing business need for ground transportation
often do not have dedicated health and safety managers
in order to perform their job duties effectively.
on-site, we created an assessment process to complement
Biogen is committed to promoting a high level of
the guide. During 2015, we will enlist a third-party
safety awareness and responsible driving behavior
consultancy to assess about half of our affiliate office
in our employees. Employees are required to attend
locations, which will account for about 90 percent of
behind-the-wheel driver training, drive and maintain
our affiliate-office employees.
the vehicle in a safe operating condition at all times.
Safeguarding Contractors and Employees
Contractors – Our commitment to a safe workplace benefits both our employees and the contractors
Health and Safety Performance
working within our facilities. In 2014, our incident rate was 2.4 across our three major sites and more
than 407,000 subcontractor hours. This number
Days Away Case Rate
stems from two Lost Time Accidents and three
Accidents per Million Miles
recordable injuries. While our rate in 2014 is not quite
as good as the previous year, Biogen continues to rank better than the industry average for contractor safety.
Employees – Overall, our employee safety record has improved over time. In fact, our occupational safety performance continues to be in the first quartile of companies in the biopharmaceutical industry. There will be individual years when the Days Away Case Rate (DACR) or Accidents per Million Miles (APMM) rates increase, but we expect that the trend of decreased rates will continue over time. While our DACR appreciably deteriorated in 2014, we believe the systems in place are still effective, and that no major structural or
We invest in the well-being of our employees by encouraging
them to use an array of company-supported wellness
offerings, including state-of-the-art fitness centers on-site
INCIDENT-INJURY
at all major locations; cafes with healthy dining options;
FREE IN HILLERØD
walk-and-work stations and ergonomic instruction and
support; free on-site nutrition counseling and biometric
Incident-Injury Free (IIF) is a personal
screenings throughout the year; on-site massage therapy
and organizational commitment to create
an environment absent of incident and
and many educational and program opportunities targeted
injury. Our Hillerød location adopted IIF
to specific health risks and lifestyles.
in 2014 on a continuing basis for our water
Purification 2 Harvest 2 project. IIF is not
Individual locations also champion their own wellness
a program, a campaign or a "zero injuries"
programs that align with their resources and most
project. It is a journey and mindset that
prevalent health risk factors. Some examples from across
brings safety to the next level by making
our operations include:
it personal to all employees and company
leadership. The IIF approach takes people
beyond simply learning how to avoid what
• The Cambridge Wellness Center provides holistic
they don't want to happen to learn how to
well-being services, including fitness for duty evaluations,
achieve what they do want to see happen.
ergonomic assessments, immunizations and clinical tests.
• Our RTP Wellness Program offers employee activity groups
that promote active lifestyles and weight loss and offers
Promoting Employee Wellness
nutritional counseling, health seminars and other on-site
We work to create robust wellness initiatives focused
health services.
on advancing a work environment that supports healthy lifestyles. The Global Wellness Program at Biogen builds
• Employees in Denmark can take advantage of on-site
on a simple premise – a person's health and well-being
health services including massage therapy and
matters for a lifetime. This program employs strategies
that aim to enhance our employee's physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being.
• Switzerland-based employees, primarily in Zug, have access
to a growing number of wellness opportunities, including
An important part of cultivating a healthy workplace
fitness classes, clubs and stipends, access to healthy food
is empowering employees with knowledge about their
and ergonomic workspaces.
own health. We incent employees to take a health risk assessment and receive biometric screenings each year.
• At our major U.S. and international locations, we hold
benefits fairs at which employees have their health and fitness levels measured.
PRODUCT RESPONSIBILIT Y
Responsible Supply Chain
Improving the lives of patients encompasses an array
Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative (PSCI)
of measures to ensure that we source supplies and
is a group of major pharmaceutical companies that
materials responsibly and protect the integrity of our
share a vision of better social, economic and environmental
products throughout their lifecycle, from production
outcomes for everyone in the pharmaceutical supply
through final disposition. We do this through checks
chain, including improved conditions for workers,
and balances within our company and in collaboration
economic development and a cleaner environment
with others in the pharmaceutical supply chain.
for local communities. PSCI seeks to establish formal industry guidelines about ethics, labor, health and safety,
All of Biogen's suppliers are subject to our Code
the environment and management systems, and to support
of Business Conduct, and must
suppliers to build capacity to operate in a manner consistent
meet rigorous compliance standards for quality,
with those expectations. The initiative is being facilitated by
as well as comply with applicable external laws and
regulations. Currently we source the majority of our
materials from regions that are not considered high
risk from an environmental, social and governance
All of Biogen's suppliers are subject to
perspective, such as the United States and Europe.
our Code of Business Conduct, Values in
Nonetheless, we work diligently to make sure our
Action, and must meet rigorous compliance
supply chain is of the highest quality.
standards for quality, as well as comply with applicable external laws and regulations.
For those vendors that supply products and services that relate directly to the safety and integrity of our
Biogen is an active participant in PSCI, and supports the
products and the continuity of our manufacturing
Principles, which align with international frameworks and
process, we employ self-assessment surveys to gauge
standards, including the United Nations Global Compact
corporate citizenship performance. Since 2011,
and the International Labour Organization. PSCI's initiatives
we have processed over 65 surveys and are using
include shared audits of major suppliers, conducted by
this information to better understand supplier practices.
third parties under PSCI direction, and supplier capacity
We also intensified our focus on implementing
building. This approach yields a broad array of critical
a proactive supply-chain risk management process.
information about the supply chain, provides guidance
This annual process assesses the risks associated
for suppliers and streamlines the process for both
with our supplier base from an environmental,
pharmaceutical companies and their suppliers.
social and governance perspective across multiple factors, including water risks. We have not identified any at-risk suppliers through this process.
PRODUCT RESPONSIBILIT Y
Over the last three years, PSCI completed 27 joint
Supplier Diversity
audits and 60 shared PSCI audits. Audit results are
Biogen's supplier diversity commitment aims to have
available through the PSCI Online Supplier Directory,
our employees, suppliers and patients embody the rich
which gives PSCI members quick and easy access to
and diverse communities we serve. Our philosophy is
audit reports and documents. PSCI also expanded its
based in the belief that by enriching our partnerships through
resources for building supplier capacity by creating
the inclusion of small businesses and businesses owned by
a robust online resource library. To date, there have
veterans, service-disabled veterans, LGBT individuals, women
been 240 environmental, health, safety, labor and
and minorities, we further support our company's economic
social-related standards and documents loaded into
growth, innovation and competitive advantage. In 2014,
the Supplier Library.
we spent more than $143 million with diverse suppliers.
PSCI held supplier events reaching over 200 suppliers
To learn more about our commitment to supplier diversity,
in China in 2014 to promote suppliers' capabilities
please on our website.
to operate in a manner consistent with the group's
Product Security and Brand Protection
expectations. In September 2014, PSCI held a
Biogen takes the issue of counterfeit, adulterated and
conference in Suzhou, China, to present its Principals
compromised drugs very seriously and is committed to
for Responsible Supply Chain Management to leading
the highest standards of drug quality and patient safety.
suppliers of PSCI members. The conference focused
Counterfeits, adulterated and compromised drugs by their
on the following topics:
nature are of unknown safety and efficacy, thereby putting patients at risk. As part of our commitment to patients,
• An overview of the PSCI core Principles, with a focus
Biogen is dedicated to protecting the safety and integrity
on management systems, ethics and labor practices.
of our products around the world.
• An in-depth understanding of selected critical health
and safety practices related to the management of process safety and industrial hygiene challenges in the pharmaceutical industry.
• An overview of the environmental laws of the
People's Republic of China and selected environmental protection practices, with an emphasis on hazardous waste and wastewater management.
PRODUCT RESPONSIBILIT Y
Worldwide markets for biopharmaceutical products
Product Stewardship
like ours are generally well regulated for the secure
While ensuring the integrity of our products and their
delivery of medicines, and we have great trust in the
end-of-life disposition has long been a priority at Biogen,
governments and commercial partners who help
we have recently begun taking a more expansive and
distribute our therapies. Our product security and brand
strategic view of this important topic. Our product
protection program supports an effective, secure and
stewardship efforts are aimed at minimizing adverse health,
resilient global supply chain, and the overall integrity of
safety, environmental and social impacts and maximizing
Biogen's medicines, for the protection and safety of our
the benefits and value of our products throughout their
patients. Some of the measures Biogen is employing to
full lifecycle. We view it as a core responsibility and an
deter, detect and disrupt the criminal counterfeiting of
opportunity for innovation and ongoing improvement.
our medicines include:
Our product stewardship approach encompasses decisions
and activities at every stage of the product lifecycle and will
• Implementing sophisticated technology into our
continue to develop and focus on the following areas:
product packaging
• Using green chemistry to reduce the use of energy,
• Auditing and monitoring of supply chain
water and hazardous materials in our development
partners globally
and manufacturing processes
• Monitoring drug sales and potential threats to the
• Reviewing materials used in devices to reduce their
supply chain with counterfeit or diverted product
environmental footprint
Biogen supports the use of appropriate track-and-trace
• Reducing the environmental impact of product
techniques to advance the security of the supply chain.
Delivering safe, secure, effective products to patients remains our commitment.
• Disposing of products responsibly at end of life
• Ensuring that our products adhere to national
and international regulatio, and other industry-related standards, including those governing conflict minerals
ENSURING ETHICAL BUSINESS PRACTICES
Code of Business Conduct
Biogen conducts business ethically and with the
The Code was updated in 2013 to contain new sections
highest degree of integrity. Sound corporate governance
that illustrate Biogen's ethical foundations, the real-life
is essential to sustaining our growth and success as a
application of company values and resources for taking
company and to maintaining the trust and confidence of
action. There are also new credo statements, as well as
our stakeholders. This extends throughout all aspects of
revamped chapters, including content on the importance
our business, from the way we conduct clinical trials to the
of speaking up, putting patients first and ethical decision-
way we market our products. All employees must comply
making. The revised Code places particular focus on
with our Code of Business Conduct, Values in Action,
patients, one of our key values.
which guides decision-making throughout our organization. We update the Code as needed and require employees
Every function within Biogen works to
to participate in training sessions to ensure that they
advance our efforts to operate responsibly
understand all the principles and practices that it
and sustainably.
The Code covers six core principles:
Every Biogen employee is required to be trained on our Code of Business Conduct. Our Anti-Bribery and Anti-
• We Respect Patients and Healthcare Professionals
Corruption Policy outlines standardized global operating procedures focused on grants and donations, sponsorships
• We Work Together As a Team
and fees for services and hospitality.
• We Are Fair and Honest With Our Business Partners
Responsibility for our performance begins with our board of directors. As of May 2015, the board has
• We Protect Our Information and Assets
11 members, three women and eight men, all of whom meet the independence requirements of the NASDAQ,
• We Never Compromise Our Integrity
with the exception of our CEO. The board's Corporate Governance committee sets our company's governance
• We Are Transparent
framework in our Corporate Governance Principles. For more information on our board and board committees, please see the section of our website.
ENSURING ETHICAL BUSINESS PRACTICES
Corporate Citizenship Strategy
will perform in conjunction with a trial and agree to an
Our commitment to corporate citizenship and
associated budget and payment structure. Biogen conducts
environmental sustainability is grounded in our
fair market value assessments to ensure that investigators
Code of Business Conduct, Values in Action and the
are paid fairly for their work conducted. We also have policies
, adopted in 2011 by our
that require investigators to disclose any financial interests
Corporate Sustainability Council (CSC), a cross-functional
in our company, thereby reducing the potential for conflicts
team chaired by our CEO. Values in Action sets forth
of interest.
expectations for patient care, research ethics and
human rights, among other topics.
In fulfilling its mission to improve human health worldwide
The Sustainability Policy lays out our commitment
through the discovery of therapeutic compounds – and to
to operating in a manner that reduces our environmental
ensure their efficacy and safety for use in humans –
impact, improves social conditions and promotes
Biogen uses insights that can be acquired only through
economic prosperity. The Policy also requires the
studies involving the use of certain animals. In many cases,
company to develop a long-term corporate citizenship
this is essential to determining the therapeutic relevance
strategy, including goals, objectives and targets,
of new research approaches for human diseases.
and an annual report on our progress. Every function
Biogen is at times required by standards of scientific
within Biogen works to advance our efforts to operate
best practice, or by government agencies charged with
responsibly and sustainably. Each function develops
the protection of public health, to sponsor research that
strategic plans that are approved by management,
uses animals in order to determine the efficacy and
and in certain cases, by the board of directors.
safety of therapeutic compounds.
Payments to Investigators
When required to sponsor research that uses animals,
To ensure the integrity of our research, we employ stringent
Biogen adheres to applicable national and international
guidelines in identifying and contracting with investigators
laws, policies and guidelines on the humane treatment of
(physicians and other personnel) who implement the
animals used in research, including but not limited to the
clinical trials sponsored by Biogen. We also conduct
Animal Welfare Act, the U.S. Public Health Service Policy,
extensive capability assessments to determine whether
the National Institutes of Health and the Association for
investigators are able to comply with the requirements
Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care
of the protocol. We require both investigators and the
(list of applicable regulatio
institutions that employ them to review the services they
ENSURING ETHICAL BUSINESS PRACTICES
Responsible Marketing
Our Product Review Committees are responsible for
We are committed to providing information that
reviewing and approving marketing materials before they
is accurate, supported by scientific evidence and
are distributed publicly. We have adopted a global policy
presented honestly and fairly in every context.
that identifies general principles to be incorporated when
Our interactions with patients and healthcare
global promotional materials are created, as well as
providers are governed by all applicable laws
standard operating procedures that are implemented
and regulations, as well as by our Code of Business
by all Biogen offices throughout the world.
Conduct, Values in Action, and our Comprehensive Compliance Program. All applicable employees receive
regular training and education programs regarding our marketing policies and practices.
We recently revised our Code of Business Conduct, Values in Action, among other actions, to update and
improve on our policies regarding product information
and promotion, as well as our interactions with healthcare professionals and organizations.
All employees were required to take part in online and hands-on training, which used real-world examples to help bring these policies to life. We aim to ensure that all of our marketing materials are created and communicated in an ethical and responsible manner.
All employees were required to take part in online and hands-on training, which used real-world examples to help bring these policies to life. We aim to ensure that all of our marketing materials are created and communicated in an ethical and responsible manner.
About This REPORT
Biogen's annual Corporate Citizenship Report presents our citizenship and sustainability achievements, challenges and goals to our employees and outlines our ongoing engagement with patients and other key stakeholders.
ABOUT THIS REPORT
This report was prepared in accordance with the
Determining Material Issues
idelines "Core" option
In late 2013 and early 2014, Biogen conducted a full
and includes a substantial amount of information required
Materiality Assessment to determine what citizenship
of the "Comprehensive" option. The report constitutes
and sustainability issues have the most impact on our
a high degree of transparency and data inclusion.
company and are most important to key stakeholders.
We have strived to include in-depth coverage of the
Our Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 (business travel only)
most material topics within this report and/or on applicable
emissions were verified by , in accordance with
sections of our website. We believe that these issues
the AA1000 Assurance Standard (2008). All other
have remained largely consistent since the 2013/2014
Scope 3 emissions data were assured b
Materiality Assessment and plan on periodically conducting
Net Zero Carbon Footprint determined according to
assessments to ensure that we are addressing the issues
Biogen's Carbon Neutrality Methodology assured by
most important to our company and our stakeholders.
ERM CVS based on
We have made some minor changes to our Materiality Matrix and Grid to reflect the following:
Data in this report covers our domestic and international
companywide operations, including consolidated subsidiaries
• The topic of Intellectual Property was deemed to be more
but excluding joint ventures, for calendar years 2012 through
significant to certain external stakeholders than we had
2014, with an emphasis on 2014 activities. Some activities
indicated in our last report, based on additional secondary
of note from the first half of 2015 are also covered. Our 2014
research we conducted in 2015.
environmental data includes our main locations (Weston, Mass., Cambridge, Mass. and Research Triangle Park, N.C.
• The topic of Diversity was moved further to the right
in the United States and Hillerød, Denmark).
in the Materiality Grid, reflecting the increasing
This report excludes one small entity, Neurimmune SubOne,
emphasis we place on this important issue.
which Biogen does not own but consolidates for financial reporting purposes.
• The topics of Training and Development and
Talent Attraction/Retention were combined under
All references to currency are in U.S. dollars. Biogen is
a single heading of Talent Management.
responsible for the preparation and integrity of the content in this report. Through a system of internal controls, including a comprehensive verification process by internal subject matter
The topics included in this report have been affirmed by our
experts, we believe this report accurately represents our
CEO, George A. Scangos, Ph.D. as being our most material
corporate citizenship and sustainability initiatives. For more
citizenship and environmental sustainability issues.
information on this report, send questions or comments to .
ABOUT THIS REPORT
We conducted our Materiality Assessment through
one-on-one interviews with more than a dozen
a rigorous methodology that included the review of key
Biogen subject matter experts, as well as reviewed
guidelines set forth by respected external organizations.
an abundance of company literature and research.
In all, we explored 37 topics. To populate the list of
Based on these factors, the issues deemed as the most
topics to include in our analysis, we referenced the
material to our company and to stakeholders are shown in
Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB)
the upper right quadrant of our Materiality Matrix (Figure 1).
Biotechnology Sustainability Accounting Standard,
A more detailed look at our material issues, including
which has its own rigorous materiality process;
where the associated impacts occur and the relative level
United Nations Global Compact's Ten Principles;
of control that Biogen can exert over these issues, is found
The Ceres Roadmap for Sustainability; and the
in the Material Issues Grid (Figure 2). The full range of issues
Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes.
explored is found in Figure 3.
A detailed look at our material issues,
including where the associated impacts
occur and the relative level of control that Biogen can exert over these issues, is found in our Material Issues Grid
We also conducted a review of topics covered by the following types of organizations: patient advocacy organizations in two of our main therapeutic areas, MS and hemophilia, and pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies and associations.
Additionally, in 2014, we conducted a series of external interviews with representatives of three members of the investment community and six U.S.-based MS patient advocacy organizations for the specific purpose of informing the content of this report. Internally, in third quarter 2013, we conducted a materiality workshop with representation from virtually every area of our company and followed with
2014 MATERIALIT Y MATRIX
FULL RANGE OF ISSUES/
IMPORTANCE TO KEY STAKEHOLDER GROUPS
• Supply Chain ESG
• R&D/Innovation
• Patient Health Outcomes
• Regulatory & Legal
• Access to Treatment/Societal
Climate Change Risk
• Ethics/Governance
• Stakeholder Engagement• Citizenship/Philanthropy
• Environmental Impacts
• Intellectual Property
GHG Emissions/Air Pollution
• New & Emerging Markets
• Workforce Diversity
• Labor Practices/Human Rights
• Customer Relationship
Patient Health Outcomes
• Product Life Cycle Impact
Customer Relationship Management
• Senior Management/BOD
• Talent Management
• Political Contributions
• Occupational Health, Safety &
Disclosure & Labeling
• CEO Compensation
• Risk & Crisis Management
Access to Services
• Disclosure & Labeling
• Green Chemistry/Green
• Capital Allocation
Training & Development
Impact on Business
CEO Compensation
Occupational Health & Safety
2014 MATERIAL ISSUES GRID
Product Societal Value
Product Life Cycle Use Impact
PATIENT HEALTH OUTCOMES
Regulatory and Legal Challenges
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Capital Allocation
Management Team/BOD
PRODUCT SOCIETAL VALUE
Risk & Crisis Management
Stakeholder Engagement
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
Labor Practices/Human Rights
Green Chemistry/Green Biology
CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEERISM
Employee Volunteerism
Impact on Business
Employee Wellness
Political Contributions
BIIB has high control or influence
Impacts occur internally
Intellectual Property
BIIB has medium control or influence
Impacts occur internally and externally
BIIB has low control or influence
Impacts occur externally
Location and/or Description
Strategy and Analysis
CEO Letter; Citizenship & Sustainability
Organizational Profile
About Biogen
World headquarters: Cambridge, Mass., United States
International headquarters: Zug, Switzerland
Publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange
About Biogen; Citizenship & Sustainability; Improving Lives;
About Biogen
(Item 1, Pages 1-6)
About Biogen; Acting Responsibly
Approximately 6 percent of our employees are under a collective
bargaining agreement. All of these employees work in our Hillerød,
Denmark, manufacturing facility.
Citizenship & Sustainability (see value-chain diagram); Acting Responsibly
Biogen experienced significant growth from 2013 to 2014. Total revenues increased
from $6.9 billion to $9.7 billion. We changed our name from Biogen Idec to Biogen.
Biogen acquired Convergence Pharmaceuticals for $200 million in cash and $475 million
in potential milestone payments. Additionally, in 2014, we launched ALPROLIX and
ELOCTATE for hemophilia and PLEGRIDY for MS.
Biogen applies the precautionary approach by achieving carbon neutrality, ensuring
the safety of patients, and performing detailed risk analyses related to our operations.
Acting Responsibly (Engaging with Stakeholders, Pharmaceutical Supply Chain
Initiative, Animal Welfare; G4 Index – Labor Practices and Decent Work [DMA])
About This Report
ages F19-F30, F46-F56)
Citizenship & Sustainability; About This Report
Location and/or Description
Identified Material Aspects and Boundaries
G4-19, G4-20, G4-21
Citizenship & Sustainability; About This Report
Rethinking Resources (Status Change Leads to Innovation)
Stakeholder Engagement
G4-24, G4-25, G4-26,
Improving Lives; Acting Responsibly; About This Report
G4-28, G4-29, G4-30,
About This Report
G4-31, G4-32, G4-33
Biogen reports on its Corporate Citizenship commitment annually.
Our most recent report prior to this report was released in June 2014.
Acting Responsibly
Acting Responsibly
Code of Business Conduct, (Page 26)
G4-45, G4-46, G4-47
Acting Responsibly
Our CEO, George A. Scangos, Ph.D., has affirmed that we have identified our most material
citizenship and environmental sustainability issues in this report. A team of Biogen subject
matter experts at the associate director, director, senior director and senior and executive
vice president levels have approved the report content related to their areas of expertise.
G4-51, G4-52, G4-53
(Pages 12, 31-62)
Location and/or Description
Ethics & Integrity
Specific Standard Disclosures
Location and/or Description
About Biogen
(Page 35, F2-F8)
(For details, see
We have identified a number of potential risks associated
with climate change, including:
• Physical risk to property and employees, including increased
droughts, hurricane severity, power or communications failures
and flooding, which could affect our operations.
• Operating and financial risks, including extreme weather
events and rising sea levels, that could disrupt transportation
of goods/services/employees and physically impact our
R&D and manufacturing sites. We could also be impacted
financially if sectors we source from become subject to
greenhouse gas regulations.
Also see our s.
In the United States, we do not have any defined benefit plan
obligations. Outside of the United States, we make government-
mandated pension contributions.
Acting Responsibly (Diversity at Biogen chart)
About Biogen; Improving Lives (Hack MS, Believe and Achieve,
Patient Services); Acting Responsibly
Location and/or Description
G4-EN1, G4-EN3, G4-EN4,
Rethinking Resources
G4-EN5, G4-EN6, G4-EN8,
Note: All of our water is drawn from municipal sources. We do not
G4-EN9, G4-EN10,
believe we significantly affect any water sources, but continue to
G4-EN15, G4-EN16,
work to reduce our water consumption.
G4-EN17, G4-EN18,
assured by Trucost
G4-EN19, G4-EN23,
About This Report (description of external assurance)
emissions (business
travel only) assured by
All other Scope 3 CO e
emissions assured by
Biogen did not have any significant spills in 2014.
We produce both chemical and medical waste, virtually all of which
is incinerated for waste-to-energy purposes. We do not ship any
Biogen reports emissions of CO e associated with its value chain.
emissions (business
travel only) assured by
About This Report (description of external assurance)
emissions (business
travel only) assured by
All other Scope 3
Location and/or Description
Labor Practices and Decent Work
Biogen follows laws, regulations and international conventions related to labor practices and ensuring decent work, including the ILO Tripartite
Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. Specific commitments to Respect in the Workplace and Workplace Health and Safety are outlined in our
Code of Business Conduct, Values in Action. Employees are responsible for upholding the code. Suppliers are also subject to the code.
Acting Responsibly (partially reported)
At our Hillerød, Denmark, facility, the minimum notice period
is based on seniority and specified in the collective bargaining
agreement. Notice periods may vary anywhere from one to six
All Biogen employees receive a performance and career
development review, annually.
Acting Responsibly (Diversity at Biogen chart);
G4-HR4, G4-HR5, G4-HR6
We have not identified any owned operations or suppliers
where there is a significant risk of human rights violations.
Our major operations are not in areas considered to be at
high risk. We are continuing to work to improve monitoring of
human rights in our supply chain through participation in the
Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative.
Improving Lives
Location and/or Description
Product Responsibility
All of our products are assessed for health and safety impacts.
Due to the nature of our business, all of Biogen's products
have stringent product information and labeling requirements.
See the following for links to prescribing information for our
marketed therapies:
In 2013, Biogen engaged a third-party firm to measure patient
and healthcare provider satisfaction with our company.
While the results were quite positive, we consider the results
proprietary and, as such, do not publicly report them.
Disclosures on Management Approach of Material Issues
For each issue described below, see Por an explanation of why that issue has been identified as material to Biogen.
Many of our most material issues are managed by multiple functions throughout the company, as referenced below.
Location and/or Description
Research and Development
Improving Lives
(R&D) and InnovationPatient Health Outcomes
Improving Lives
Access to Treatment/Promoting
Improving Lives; Acting Responsibly
Product Societal ValueEthics/Governance
Acting Responsibly
Stakeholder Engagement
Improving Lives; Acting Responsibly; About This Report
Citizenship & Philanthropy
Improving Lives
Environmental Impacts
Intellectual Property
Independent Assurance Statement to Biogen Inc.
ERM Certification and Verification Services, Inc. (ERM CVS) was engaged by Biogen Inc. (Biogen) to provide assurance in relation to its Net Zero Carbon Footprint assertion as reported on
page 52 of the Committed to What Counts: 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report for the calendar year 2014.
Engagement Summary
Whether Biogen's Net Zero Carbon Footprint assertion for the period 1st January 2014 – 31st December 2014 is, in all material respects, appropriately presented. The scope of assurance includes review of:
Biogen's separately verified GHG Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions as presented on 58 and 59 of the Committed to What Counts: 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report
Biogen's Project Offsets, Renewable Energy Certificates and Guarantees of Origin (converted to tones co2e) as presented on 59 of the Committed to What Counts: 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report.
The underlying calculations to achieve a Net Zero Carbon Footprint.
"Appropriately presented" means we have assessed the selected data for reliability which includes: completeness (whether all relevant sources were captured); comparability (across locations and over time); and accuracy of calculations (including the use of appropriate formula, conversion factors, estimates and assumptions).
Reporting criteria used:
Biogen Carbon Neutral Methodology
Assurance standard
used:
ISO 14064-3:2006: Specification with guidance for the validation and verification of greenhouse gas assertions
Assurance level:
Limited assurance
To determine the extent of conformity of the GHG assertion with the reporting criteria, including the GHG information system and its controls/management; and to
Objectives
confirm whether the GHG assertion is reported without material discrepancy and whether the verification activities provide the level of assurance agreed to.
Biogen is responsible for preparing the data reported in the Committed to What Counts: 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report and for the collection and presentation
Respective
of the information.
ERM CVS's responsibility is to provide conclusions on the agreed scope based on the assurance activities performed and exercising our professional judgement.
Our conclusions
The limitations of our engagement
Based on our activities, nothing has come to our attention to indicate that Biogen's Net
The reliability of the assured data is subject to inherent uncertainties, given the available
Zero Carbon Footprint assertion for the calendar year 2014 presented on page 52 of its
methods for determining, calculating or estimating the underlying information.
Committed to What Counts: 2014 Corporate Citizenship Report is not appropriately
presented according to the reporting criteria.
Based on the work outlined above, we have provided Biogen with a separate,
Our assurance activities
confidential report detailing our assessment of its Net Zero Carbon Footprint assertion
We planned and performed our work to obtain all the information and explanations that we
for the reporting year 2014.
believe were necessary to provide a basis for our assurance conclusions.
A team of GHG and assurance specialists performed the following key activities:
Confirming that Biogen's reported GHG Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions were independently verified.
Cross checking that the purchased Project Offsets, Renewable Energy Certificates
and Guarantees of Origin were retired/managed according to Biogen's Carbon
Neutral Methodology.
Melanie Eddis, Partner
A review of the calculations undertaken, including cross checking of the primary data.
ERM Certification and Verification Services, Inc.
An analytical review of the consolidated year end data
www.ermcvs.com email: [email protected]
ERM CVS is a member of the ERM Group. The work that ERM CVS conducts for clients is solely related to independent assurance activities and auditor training. Our processes are designed and implemented to ensure that the
work we undertake with clients is free from bias and conflict of interest. ERM CVS and the staff that have undertaken work on this assurance exercise provide no consultancy related services to Biogen in any respect.
Source: https://www.biogen.hu/content/dam/corporate/en_us/pdfs/corporate-citizenship-report/BiogenCCR2014.pdf
Programa Nacional de Eliminación de la Oncocercosis de Colombia (PNEOC). Protocolo de Vigilancia en Salud Pública Fernando de la Hoz DOCUMENTO ELABORADO POR Director General INS Programa Nacional de Eliminación de la Mancel Enrique Martínez Duran Oncocercosis de Colombia (PNEOC) Director Vigilancia y Análisis del Riesgo en Salud Pública
Journal of Immunotoxicology, 2008; 5(4): 369–384 MHC restriction and allogeneic immune responses Dmitry B. Kazansky Carcinogenesis Institute, N. N. Blokhin's Cancer Research Center, Moscow, Russia Discovery of major histocompatability complex (MHC) restriction helped in the understanding of how T-lymphocytes recognize antigens on bacteria, viruses, and tumor cells. It was initially accepted that MHC