FAQ

Biotechnological production differs greatly from traditional chemical production. The manufacturing cells and protein products are only stable in an aqueous environment. Flammable organic solvents and toxic substances generally do not occur in biotechnological production.

Biogen has been able to increase the productivity of its biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes significantly over the course of the last decade. To meet the rising global demand for high-quality biopharmaceuticals and the potential requirements of the research pipeline, Biogen wants to expand its production capacity further, which is why it is planning this ultramodern production facility on the Borregaard site in Luterbach.

Although production is around the clock, there’s virtually no effect on the environment. The fans and pumps aren’t loud, and they’re also screened. Now and then, we test the diesel generators. They emit an odour, but we don’t expect this to be detectable in the surrounding area. Neighbours will be aware of the water vapour from the cooling system, but this isn’t smoke, so it isn’t damaging to the environment.

Biogen expects that many of the employees will come from Switzerland. Even so, there will be an international atmosphere, and Biogen must have the option of bringing in experts from abroad. This will be discussed with local and national government representatives. The good vocational and educational training system in Switzerland will help us with recruiting.

Around 400 jobs are directly and closely involved with production, the other 200 jobs are mainly in operating and maintaining the plant.

The project is very complex and time critical. For safety reasons, it isn’t possible to visit the construction site. If you want to know more about the construction site and the future production facility, you can take the “Biogen walk”. We’ve set up points along the construction site, which provide a view of the production and the future plant.