The forest industry is possibly the greenest industry we know! It must be, as an industry dependent on forests cannot afford to neglect or destroy the very resource it relies on for survival.

Welcome to the latest edition of Opticom's Health Newsletter! Across Europe, the health and life sciences industry are rapidly evolving with significant advancements in digital health technologies and personalized medicine. The EU's regulatory landscape is adapting to support these innovations, ensuring patient safety while fostering technological growth. Globally, there is a marked increase in the adoption of telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, which are revolutionizing patient care and operational efficiencies in healthcare systems.

On May 6th 2024, the doors of Forskaren opened, marking a significant milestone in the realm of scientific and technological innovation. Representing Opticom, we were privileged to be among the attendees at this momentous event, witnessing the unveiling of a space that promises to redefine the landscape of research and development.

The pharmaceutical industry plays a crucial role in global healthcare but its operations have a significant environmental impact. From the production process to the disposal of medications, the industry contributes to a considerable carbon footprint. This issue has prompted various global initiatives, including notable efforts, such as the ones in Sweden and the USA, which aim to reduce the environmental impact of pharmaceutical activities. Addressing these issues requires innovative solutions and collaborative efforts, reflecting Opticom's commitment to integrating environmental sustainability with strategic business insights.

It’s been a busy quarter here, not least because we are seeing increased demand for our services when it comes to sustainability issues. Clearly, all things green, and listening to what consumers as well as direct customers are saying and thinking about sustainability, is key - now more than ever.

Don’t take our word for it. That’s the view from SCA Pulp’s Sales Director for Italy and Austria, Marcus Hellberg, who recently hosted a workshop event with us to review the results of their latest in-depth customer study with Opticom.

Swedish forest products group Södra has been working with Opticom for some 20 years to track customer satisfaction for its pulp products. Now its Bioproducts team has added us to its toolbox, conducting the company’s first in-depth survey of its growing solid bioproducts customer base.

Green Insights Europe 2024 is an in-depth study of more than 10,000 European consumers. Skogsindustrierna, the Swedish Forest Industries Federation, commissioned Opticom to examine their perceptions on climate, purchases, carbon capture and forest resources.

It was such a pleasure to be part of the excellent Skogsindustriernas Framtidsmöte 2024 on Wednesday the 24th of April. Organised by the Swedish Forest Industries Federation, this event never disappoints, provoking discussion of the major issues facing the sector today. We extend heartfelt thanks to team Skogsindustrierna fellow speakers, prize winners, and the wonderful audience. Grateful for all!

In a critical evaluation of current environmental strategies, the concept of carbon neutrality is increasingly viewed as insufficient in tackling the urgent demands of the climate crisis. This white paper argues for a vital shift towards substantial carbon reduction and genuine offsetting methods.

Our first newsletter of the year is packed with everything from the critical issue of pharmaceutical waste and its environmental consequences, to making informed decisions in the healthcare industry with the help of market research, and you get to meet the newest member of our Team; Marianna Bokou!

Our first newsletter of the year is packed with everything from EUDR, PPWR, how to re-focus Carbon Neutrality, and you get to meet the newest member of our Team; Marianna Bokou!

It was a pleasure to speak on the hot topic of the European Regulation on Deforestation-free products (EUDR) at Tissue World Miami at the beginning of February, together with Marcus Hellberg, SCA’s Sales Director, Italy and Austria.

As the urgency for climate mitigation intensifies, we’re hearing a lot of pledging these days, primarily aimed at meeting carbon-neutral targets (net-zero emissions) later rather than sooner. Could companies be doing more to have a more immediate impact? The answer is a resounding yes, as Project Manager David Weller, explains.

We’re delighted to welcome a new Research Team Lead to our growing staff. Marianna Bokou has a background in Market Access and Quality Assurance in several pharmaceutical companies. She also holds an MSc in Health Economics, Policy & Management from the Karolinska Institutet and a BA in Pharmacy. We pride ourselves on our multi-lingual team and Marianna is no exception. A native of Athens, Greece, she moved to Sweden in 2022 to study for her MSc and is learning Swedish fast, in addition to her fluency in English and German and her native Greek.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the biggest overhaul of European packaging rules in years. Currently under review by the European Parliament and Council, launched in November 2022, it aims to reduce Europe’s packaging waste and promote reusable alternatives. It includes proposals for packaging reduction targets for Member States and strict reusable and refill targets for in-store dining and takeaway services.

Market research within its health division is the foundational strategy to drive informed business decision-making for the different stakeholders in the healthcare industry. Opticom’s approach for market research involves a multi-faceted methodology, deeply integrated with strategic consulting, and supported by our industry knowledge, to deliver actionable insights that directly impact clients' business outcomes. 

The Unseen Environmental Cost of Pharmaceuticals  In the modern world, pharmaceuticals offering relief and cure to many health conditions. Yet, beneath this healing facade lies an often-overlooked consequence—environmental pollution. The journey of pharmaceuticals, from their production to their disposal, demonstrates significant risks to different ecosystems, particularly aquatic life, and by extension, human health.   In this upcoming series of articles, Opticom will delve into the critical yet often overlooked issue of pharmaceutical waste and its environmental consequences. Our first piece sheds light on the significant barrier presented by a lack of public awareness regarding the safe disposal of unused or expired medications. This topic aligns with Opticom's commitment to fostering informed discussions and better solutions, as we explore the intersection of both healthcare and environmental sustainability. By initiating this series, Opticom aims to inspire actionable change, reflecting our dedication to addressing complex global challenges through insightful analysis and strategic guidance. 

We’re delighted to welcome a new Research Team Lead to our growing staff. Marianna Bokou has a background in Market Access and Quality Assurance in several pharmaceutical companies. She also holds an Msc in Health Economics, Policy & Management from the renowned Swedish medical university, Karolinska Institutet, and a BA in Pharmacy.

Q: Why investing in international market research during times of uncertainty? 

A: It’s a strategic move for decision-makers and business leaders. 

In an ever-evolving global landscape, uncertainty has become the new constant. For businesses seeking growth and stability, the necessity of understanding international markets cannot be overstated. In this article, we delve into why decision-makers and business leaders should consider international market research an invaluable investment, particularly during times of uncertainty.