A New Era for Tobacco Filters: SWM Expands Evolute® Product Range

The tobacco industry is entering a pivotal moment. Pressures from evolving regulations on single-use plastics (SUP), rising ESG commitments, consumer expectations, and tax burdens are converging to demand change. SWM is proud to lead this transformation with the expansion of its Evolute® filtering media portfolio. The new Gen2 range represents a breakthrough in sustainable solutions, accelerating the shift toward cellulosic fiber-based filters without compromising performance.

Meeting Regulatory Challenges with Confidence

Evolute® is outside the scope of the EU SUP Directive (Commission guidelines 2021/C216/01). Certified OK Biodegradable in both soil and marine environments by TÜV Austria, the filtering media range offers proven efficiency in filter crimping lines, accelerated water dispersibility and adaptability across diverse product requirements. This makes Evolute® not just compliant, but future ready.

Two Generations, One Purpose

The Evolute® portfolio now includes two distinct ranges, each designed to meet the evolving needs of combustible and heated tobacco products (HTP):

Gen1: a proven, cost-effective solution that delivers CO2e emission* reductions of at least 80% and up to 90% compared to current standards.
Gen2: a premium solution engineered to meet market expectations for a full flavor and sets a new benchmark for future innovation. It reduces CO2e emissions* by at least 50% and up to 80% compared to current standards.

As Cédric Mottier, Business Development Manager, emphasizes: “Sustainable filter solutions are no longer a question of if, but when. The growing number of customers testing, validating, or already transitioning confirms the shift is underway.”

A Portfolio Designed to Solve Industry Challenges

Customers increasingly value Evolute® because it offers choice, not compromise. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, SWM provides a complete portfolio tailored to different market needs. But Evolute® is more than a product. It is a comprehensive solution, built on decades of expertise and partnerships across the tobacco value chain. SWM’s science-backed approach and global industrial capabilities ensure continuous supply security, compliance through systematic toxicological assessments and collaboration with RID experts and OEMs to design future-ready tobacco products.

As Product Manager Alice Jaussaud explains: “Evolute® addresses the expectations of the entire ecosystem; operational, strategic, economic and environmental: all at once.”

Setting the New Standard for Tomorrow

By expanding the Evolute® range, SWM reinforces its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Evolute® is not simply a response to regulatory pressure; it is a proactive step toward reshaping the future of tobacco filters. With certified biodegradability, reduced environmental impact, and proven industrial performance, Evolute® empowers manufacturers to meet regulatory demands, operational needs, and consumer expectations simultaneously. The launch of Gen1 and Gen2 marks a turning point in the tobacco industry’s journey. Evolute® is poised to become the new standard for tobacco filters, driving innovation while reducing impact on the planet.

Learn more about Evolute®’s product range here.

*Data based on Life Cycle Assessment