By Heredia, Costa Rica – Bridgestone Costa Rica has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey with the inauguration of the largest electric boiler in Costa Rica. Located at its Belén production plant, the new electric boiler is part of a $4 million investment aimed at reducing the company’s environmental footprint. This cutting-edge project is expected to lower CO₂ emissions by 3,500 tons annually, representing a reduction of 50% in overall steam emissions at the plant.
The initiative underscores Bridgestone’s long-term commitment to sustainable energy and aligns with the company’s global goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This electric boiler operates entirely on Costa Rica’s renewable energy grid, which is powered by hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind sources. In doing so, the company is further reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and reinforcing the country’s broader goal of decarbonizing its industrial sector.
This is not just an investment in technology, but an investment in Costa Rica’s future and our responsibility to lead by example in sustainability. We are focused on achieving a balance between our economic goals and our environmental responsibility.
Alfonso Zendejas, President of Bridgestone Latin America North
The electric boiler is a key part of Bridgestone’s ongoing efforts to optimize its energy consumption, having already reduced water usage by 48% since 2013 and becoming a zero-waste-to-landfill operation since 2018. The installation, which can produce up to 6,000 kilograms of steam per hour, will contribute to cleaner and more efficient production processes, significantly improving energy efficiency across the plant.
This innovative move is part of Bridgestone’s broader environmental strategy, which also includes initiatives like its reforestation program and the “Llantatón” recycling campaign aimed at collecting and properly disposing of used tires throughout the country. These efforts have earned the Belén plant multiple international certifications for environmental management, such as ISO 14001.
Bridgestone’s decision to implement an electric boiler also comes in the context of Costa Rica’s ambitious sustainability agenda. The country has long been a pioneer in clean energy, and initiatives like Bridgestone’s are critical to maintaining that leadership. The collaboration between Bridgestone and Grupo ICE, Costa Rica’s electricity provider, highlights the potential for large-scale industrial projects to operate with minimal environmental impact.
The installation of the electric boiler is a testimony to Costa Rica’s capacity for innovation in sustainable practices. Together with Bridgestone, we are proving that industrial growth and environmental care can go hand in hand.
Marco Acuña, president of Grupo ICE
With this new project, Bridgestone Costa Rica continues to set the benchmark for sustainable industrial practices not only in the tire manufacturing sector but across the broader industrial landscape of Latin America. The company’s efforts resonate with its global vision of reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and supporting communities through sustainable development initiatives.
For further information, visit bridgestone.co.cr
About Bridgestone Costa Rica
Bridgestone Costa Rica is a leader in the tire manufacturing industry, known for its commitment to sustainability and innovative technology. With a strong presence in Latin America, the company continues to lead initiatives that aim to reduce its environmental impact while fostering economic growth and community development.
