Bioethics
To Novo Nordisk, bioethics is all ethical issues related to the use of life science technologies for the development and production of biotechnological and pharmaceutical products.
This comprises three distinct, but interrelated areas:
- Animal ethics: the welfare of experimental animals
- Medical ethics: ethical conduct of clinical trials, access to genetic resources, patenting and benefit sharing
- Environmental ethics: safe application of gene technology
In general, Novo Nordisk subscribes to the basic bioethical principles of not doing harm and doing good by demonstrating the benefits of respect and justice. The company supports the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and subscribes to the Helsinki Declaration.
The work in this field is governed by the Environment and Bioethics Committee, chaired by Lise Kingo, Executive Vice President, people, relations and reputation. Corporate principles for the use of animals and for clinical studies are part of the internal management systems and communicated to Novo Nordisk employees as well as to research partners.
Bioethics policy
In Novo Nordisk we will continuously improve our bioethical performance. This means that we will:
- Promote bioethical awareness throughout the company
- Establish and ensure high ethical standards for:
o Experiments on living animals
o Clinical trials and use of human material
o Gene technology - Set high ethical standards for our external partners, contract research organisations and suppliers and monitor their performance
- Engage in stakeholder dialogue and partnerships, and report on our performance
- Live up to the spirit, values, principles and content of relevant conventions, laws and requirements.
