THE PRIUS, Toyota’s (and the world’s) first commercially viable hybrid car maybe the most manifest of the company’s efforts in curbing climate change and its commitment as a citizen of the world. It has developed a whole ecosystem, from the way cars are sold, to the way factories operate and even to the way races are run.

As climate change worsens, the call for sustainability echoes louder than ever. The recent COP-26 conference highlighted the urgent need for collective action from governments, businesses, and individuals alike. In this global endeavor, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) emerges as a beacon of change, demonstrating that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a core commitment.

Beyond business as usual

TMP is revolutionizing the automotive landscape by intertwining its manufacturing processes and products with a profound dedication to sustainability. Recognizing the imperative to act swiftly, Toyota has accelerated its carbon neutrality goals, aiming to achieve zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2035, significantly ahead of its original 2050 target. 

This ambition extends to creating a net positive impact through water optimization, recycling, resource management, and biodiversity enhancement. Toyota’s pursuit of sustainability spans its global operations, inspiring its affiliates to act locally through the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050 (TEC 2050). 

A green value chain

TMP has taken this challenge to heart, ensuring that everyone within its value chain is not only aware of the Six Challenges under TEC 2050 but also actively participates in environmental action. From sourcing to production, delivery, and vehicle usage, TMP is committed to creating a green impact throughout the entire cycle. 

TMP’s manufacturing facilities are leading by example, utilizing renewable energy sources like a one-megawatt solar array, soon to be expanded further. Energy-efficient LED lighting, natural lighting, and inverter air-conditioning systems complement the solar array, contributing to reduced energy consumption. Additionally, TMP’s focus on water resource management through wastewater treatment, rainwater harvesting, and recycling, along with efficient waste management and reduction of single-use plastic, showcases its comprehensive approach to sustainability. 

Educating and empowering

TMP goes beyond manufacturing sustainable vehicles; it also plays an active role in educating and empowering communities. Through campus tours, TMP promotes its hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) lineup, raising awareness about the benefits of fuel-efficient vehicles and responsible battery recycling. These initiatives not only boost sales but also encourage broader participation in climate action, demonstrating that the fight against climate change requires a collective effort. 

Furthermore, TMP hosts educational sessions at its Biodiversity Learning Center and the Toyota Environment Education Theater, fostering environmental awareness and understanding. 

Creating a green canopy

TMP’s dedication extends far beyond manufacturing and sales. Its community involvement includes afforestation and biodiversity promotion efforts. The 11-hectare Toyota Eco Forest within its Sta. Rosa manufacturing complex serves as a testament to its commitment, housing a plant nursery and an eco-trail.

Additionally, TMP conducts tree-planting activities, adopts forest blocks, Siniloan, Laguna, and mangrove forests in Calatagan, Batangas, pledging to plant thousands of trees and mangroves over several years and engages in nationwide coastal clean-up initiatives through the All-Toyota Green Wave Project. 

Interestingly, it has created a several forests all over the world.

Nestled near Toyota’s headquarters, this forest serves as a testament to sustainable forestry practices. Spanning 45 hectares, it’s a haven for diverse wildlife, a hub for environmental education, and a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and nature. 

In the heart of Europe, Toyota Motor Europe transformed a public forest near its headquarters into a vibrant ecosystem. Through extensive planting and thoughtful design, the Toyota Forest in Zaventem now boasts a diverse range of native trees, shrubs, and wildlife, serving as a recreational haven and a model for urban green spaces. 

Partnering with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Toyota is actively involved in conserving and restoring forests in Southeast Asia. This ambitious project focuses on protecting endangered species, promoting sustainable forestry, and empowering local communities to become stewards of their natural resources. 

Partnerships for progress

TMP recognizes the power of collaboration in achieving its sustainability goals. It has forged alliances with government agencies, environmental NGOs, and local communities, fostering a shared responsibility for environmental stewardship. 

TMP’s sustainable practices also extend to its dealers and suppliers, encouraging them to adopt renewable energy, develop sustainable packaging, and implement material repurchase programs. This collaborative approach ensures that sustainability is integrated throughout the entire automotive ecosystem. 

Empowering consumers for a greener future

Toyota’s hybrid electric vehicles, such as the Corolla Altis HEV and Corolla Cross HEV, offer Filipino consumers a tangible way to contribute to a greener future. These self-charging hybrids significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption while providing a smooth and uninterrupted driving experience. 

But there is more empowerment.

The company is not only focused on sustainable manufacturing and eco-friendly vehicles, but it’s also exploring new mobility solutions and extending the life cycle of its vehicles through two key initiatives: Kinto and its used car program.

Kinto, a mobility service launched by Toyota Financial Services Philippines, provides an alternative to traditional car ownership. It offers a subscription-based model where customers can access a Toyota vehicle for a fixed monthly fee without the long-term commitment of buying a car.

Kinto One allows customers to select from a range of Toyota models and drive the car for three or four years. The monthly fee covers vehicle registration, insurance, and maintenance, providing a hassle-free experience. At the end of the lease term, customers simply return the vehicle.

It caters to the evolving needs of consumers, especially in urban areas, who prioritize flexibility and convenience over ownership. It eliminates the burden of down payments, maintenance costs, and resale concerns.

Moreover, Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV), an unseen but present feature at Toyota dealerships offers certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles that have undergone rigorous inspections and come with warranties, ensuring quality and reliability. The used car program supports the circular economy model, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible. This reduces the need for new vehicle production and its associated environmental impact.

Changing the apex of racing

Globally, Toyota’s pursuit of sustainable mobility solutions extends beyond hybrid technology into the realm of hydrogen fuel. Their commitment to hydrogen car racing is a testament to their ambition to push the boundaries of innovation and accelerate the development of hydrogen as a viable fuel source. 

In 2024, Toyota made significant strides in hydrogen racing by competing in the Super Taikyu Series with the GR Corolla H2 Concept, powered by liquid hydrogen.

This marked a breakthrough as liquid hydrogen offers higher energy density and easier storage compared to gaseous hydrogen, making it more suitable for endurance racing. The GR Corolla H2 Concept’s performance, though not yet victorious, demonstrated the feasibility of liquid hydrogen in motorsport, showcasing improved reliability and performance compared to previous iterations. 

In its own Toyota Vios Cup, TMP applied gaming and driver simulation systems as a way to select participants in its racing series.

Combined impact: A sustainable automotive ecosystem

These initiatives, along with Toyota’s sustainable manufacturing practices and eco-friendly vehicles, showcase the company’s comprehensive approach to creating a sustainable automotive ecosystem in the Philippines.

All these initiatives encourage a shift in consumer behavior towards more sustainable mobility choices, moving away from traditional car ownership models. The multifaceted approach demonstrates its commitment to sustainability beyond manufacturing, encompassing the entire life cycle of its vehicles and offering innovative mobility solutions.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation stands as a shining example of how sustainability can transform an entire industry. Its holistic approach, encompassing manufacturing, products, education, community engagement, and supply chain collaboration, showcases a genuine commitment to a greener future.

TMP’s actions prove that sustainable practices are not only good for the planet but also good for business. By setting an example and empowering others, Toyota is driving positive change within the automotive ecosystem and beyond, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.