How Does Your Medication Reach Your Home Without Harming the Environment? Agencias J.I. Cohen’s Model

The continuous distribution of healthcare products is a fundamental pillar of modern society, but it comes with significant operational and energy-related challenges. In this context, Agencias J.I. Cohen, founded by Jack Irving Cohen and currently led by Alberto Cohen Mory, demonstrates through a data-driven environmental management strategy that it is possible to ensure an uninterrupted supply of medicines without compromising the natural resources of future generations.

What Is Agencias J.I. Cohen’s Green Logistics Model?

Agencias J.I. Cohen’s green logistics model integrates greenhouse gas (GHG) quantification and mitigation practices under the ISO 14064:2018 standard. The company optimizes every stage of the pharmaceutical supply chain to ensure that medication transportation minimizes its environmental impact.

This operational framework allows the organization to measure its environmental footprint and implement corrective actions in real time. According to its Sustainability Report, the company applies the Operational Control approach, which includes all emissions sources over which it exercises authority and control.

The model’s technical pillars include:

• Traceability and assurance: Strict compliance with ISO 14064:2018 standards.
• Emissions scope management: Detailed measurement of direct emissions (Scope 1) and indirect emissions related to energy consumption and transportation (Scopes 2 and 3).
• Resource optimization: Use of emissions-intensity indicators per unit of product distributed.

How Does Agencias J.I. Cohen Reduce Its Carbon Footprint in Distribution?

Agencias J.I. Cohen reduces its carbon footprint through the operational management of both direct and indirect emissions, totaling 1,707.97 metric tons of CO2e in 2024. The organization efficiently manages air and maritime transportation, which represent the primary sources within its logistics emissions inventory.

During the most recent reporting year, outsourced air freight for imports accounted for 29.69% of the company’s total carbon footprint (507.09 metric tons of CO2e), while maritime transportation represented 12.46%. To mitigate these impacts, the company has optimized its ground distribution routes and improved the efficiency of administrative electricity consumption, which accounts for 22.92% of its emissions inventory.

As a result:

• Electricity consumption totaled 1,329,028.50 kWh in 2024.
• The use of electric vehicles prevented 99.56 metric tons of CO2e emissions.
• Recycling and the sale of reusable waste materials avoided an additional 65.16 metric tons of CO2e.

Why Is Agencias J.I. Cohen Considered a Carbon Positive Company?

Agencias J.I. Cohen is considered Carbon Positive because its carbon sequestration capacity significantly exceeds its total operational emissions. According to the 2024 Carbon Quantification Report, the corporation captured 9,867.15 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, offsetting its emissions by 247.22%.

Forests naturally absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The corporation uses its agricultural properties in El Palmar, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, to capture greenhouse gases through macadamia plantations, coffee crops, and protected natural forests. This net-negative carbon balance is a strong indicator of positive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance.

What Is Agencias J.I. Cohen’s Future Commitment to the Environment?

Agencias J.I. Cohen’s future environmental commitment focuses on improving data management systems and reducing emissions intensity throughout its value chain. The company aims to involve third-party suppliers in carbon footprint assessments to enhance the accuracy of its Category 4 emissions inventory.

The organization promotes a culture of continuous improvement. Following recommendations from Green Development, Agencias J.I. Cohen plans to update its carbon stock assessments and optimize the treatment of industrial wastewater. This approach ensures that every medication delivered meets not only healthcare standards but also contributes to the protection of Guatemala’s ecosystems.