In a world increasingly aware of the urgent need for climate action, Philip Morris International (PMI) is implementing transformative changes at its manufacturing sites worldwide.
Philip Morris Holland (PM Holland) is embracing cutting-edge technologies and turning toward sustainable practices at its facility in Bergen Op Zoom, where semi-manufactured goods are processed for other PMI factories.
Transforming tradition: PM Holland’s journey to sustainability
Established in the 1970s, the site at Bergen op Zoom (BoZ) was once Europe’s largest cigarette production facility. Over time, it has transformed away from producing cigarettes to focus on semi-finished products for PMI’s heated tobacco lines, flavor production, and acting as a key logistics center.
In addition to transforming the site’s function, the team in BoZ is implementing its ambitious Zero Carbon Technology program as part of PMI’s effort to tackle climate change in its operations in partnership with key stakeholders.
Pioneering the ZTC Program: 2023 achievements and milestones
During 2023, PM Holland achieved significant progress by installing both a waste heat recovery system and hybrid boilers, which became fully operational in 2024. The waste heat recovery system, one of the most extensive industrial projects of its kind in the Benelux (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxemburg), incorporates two heat pumps that will save around 13 GWh in hot water utility annually, reducing CO₂ emissions by over 2,500 tons.
Meanwhile, the hybrid boilers offer the flexibility for the factory to switch between electricity from renewable sources and natural gas, with a strong preference for electricity to maximize emissions reduction. They enable an additional 5,000-ton reduction in CO₂ annually.
These advancements have positioned the BoZ site as an innovative decarbonization frontrunner in the country.
“The waste heat recovery project and hybrid boilers mark a new era for sustainable energy use in the tobacco industry,” said Ike Hage, Project Engineer Manager at BoZ.
Image: Hybrid boilers (electric / gas) in BoZ
Collaboration and trust: a partnership with JOA Air Solutions
Achieving these ambitious targets wouldn’t be possible without strong partnerships. Despite global challenges experienced in recent years, such as a global pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions, BoZ has worked closely with trusted partners to implement these ZCT projects.
A key partnership has been with Dutch company JOA Air Solutions, which designed and installed the innovative heat recovery system, including a scrubber, heat exchangers, and two heat pumps. “We greatly value our collaboration with PM Holland and their commitment to embracing new technologies,” said Bas van den Bogerd, Business Development Director at JOA Air Solutions. “Our long-standing relationship has enabled us to develop solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in energy efficiency and emissions reduction.”
Looking ahead
As the ZCT project moves forward, PM Holland is focused on leveraging key learnings from the journey so far. “Flexibility is crucial,” Hage added. “By integrating systems that allow us to switch between gas and electricity, we ensure that we can adapt to future changes, whether in the energy market or environmental regulations.”
In late 2024, in partnership with JOA Air Solutions, PM Holland hosted a cross-industry event to share insights and amplify the impact of the ZCT project. PMI Holland’s approach to sustainability combines long-term planning with targeted investments in technologies that support both environmental responsibility and business continuity.
“This initiative is more than just a project; it’s a model for other PMI sites worldwide,” said Subashni Thamotharem, Director Manufacturing Netherlands. “My advice to other locations is to think ahead, focus on the bigger picture, and be prepared to adapt. In doing so, we not only safeguard our investments but also make meaningful contributions to reducing our carbon footprint.”
Image: Miguel Coleta, Director Sustainability, Activation & Support, at JOA Air Solutions event in our Factory in BoZ (NL)
PM Holland will continue exploring new technologies and strategies to further reduce its carbon impact, ensuring it remains on course to meet its ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of 2025.
Disclaimer: This market story should be read in conjunction with Integrated Report 2024 and the 2024 FY actuals for selected EHS data:
