Today’s consumers consider more than just the product – the practices and operations of a company heavily influence their decisions. Mars Wrigley, the manufacturer of popular confectionery brands Doublemint, Juicy Fruit, and Cool Air, understands this.

The company has recently taken a concrete step towards sustainable practices in its operations with the installation of a biomass boiler in its Antipolo factory. The thermal renewable energy project aims to contribute significantly to the company’s net zero ambition by 2050.

“At Mars Wrigley, our purpose is to inspire moments of everyday happiness. To achieve this, we need a healthy planet where people can thrive. This is why we are proud to introduce a thermal renewable energy source to our plant, making our daily operations more sustainable so people can enjoy our products knowing they are made with the environment in mind,” shares Fernando del Castillo, Mars Wrigley Antipolo Factory Director. 

Positive Impact of Renewable Energy on the Environment and Local Communities 

With the newly introduced biomass boiler, the Antipolo factory’s carbon emissions have been reduced by approximately 679 tons annually. By shifting the thermal energy source from diesel to rice husks, the boiler not only cleans the air but also boosts the livelihoods of local rice farmers supplying the raw materials. 

“Actually, nakakaproud kasi napabilang ka dito sa company na ‘to na may mga programang ganito na hitting two birds with one stone na nakakapagproduce ka ng output na target mo [and] at the same time nakakatulong ka sa environment na mapangalagaan ito [It makes me proud to be a part of a company with sustainability programs like this. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. You’re able to produce your target output and at the same time help in taking care of the environment,” says Athan Encanto, Utilities Team Lead of Mars Wrigley Antipolo Factory. 

“We are able to help others today and at the same time endorse new projects that will help the next generation,” shares Emil Cerrero, Maintenance Shift Lead.

Progressing Towards a Healthier Planet for Future Generations

Mars Wrigley’s biomass boiler initiative is part of the broader Mars Sustainable in a Generation Plan, which is aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. The plan guides Mars in implementing science-based solutions to significantly reduce its environmental impact.

“Mars is a global company with a global commitment to support sustainability. And at Mars Wrigley Antipolo, I think we are one step closer to living up to our purpose that in the world we want tomorrow, the planet is healthy,” shares Nica Aguila, Industrial Engineering and Supply Excellence Manager.

“Here at Mars, the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. In the world we want tomorrow, the planet is healthy. I’m extremely proud of this project and the work that this team has done to bring the biomass boiler initiative project here in Antipolo and the long-lasting positive impact that we’ll have on the planet for future generations,” del Castillo remarks.

Mars has cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 8% since 2015, thanks to sustainability efforts such as the biomass boiler. Its commitment to sustainability improves its operations and brings pride to its employees and the Antipolo community, proving that businesses can thrive while helping the planet.