We take the issue of climate change seriously, and we have for some time.
- Ford was the first automaker to estimate its total GHG emissions from our facilities and Ford vehicles. We have updated that estimate for this year. (See Estimate of Ford's Climate Change Emissions).
- We were the first U.S. automaker to offer a full hybrid vehicle, which was also the first hybrid from any automaker in the SUV segment.
- We have played a leading role in scientific research to establish the contribution of vehicles to climate change.
- We were the first in our industry to issue a standalone report on climate change, in late 2005. We continue to do comprehensive reporting on our GHG emissions.
- We were the first automaker to participate in carbon trading markets in North America and the UK.
- We were also the first to offset manufacturing emissions and offer customers an innovative way to offset emissions from use of their vehicle, as described in the Driver section.
- We were the first automotive company in the UK to install photovoltaics (solar panels) and onsite wind turbines to provide power to our manufacturing sites.
These "firsts" are backed up by a set of commitments covering our operations and products.
To plan and implement our strategic approach, we have established sustainability-related governance systems, which include a strong focus on fuel economy and CO2 improvements. The strategic direction is provided by a senior executive forum, made up of vice president and executive stakeholders, who guide the development of the vision, policy and business goals.
A related executive planning team is responsible for developing detailed and specific policy, product and technical analyses to meet objectives. These teams base their plans on scientific data and promote actions that will achieve the Company's environmental ambitions, recognizing the need to use a holistic approach to effectively protect the environment. Metrics have been established and are reviewed regularly to ensure satisfactory progress.
The Environmental and Public Policy Committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for reviewing the Company's climate change strategy and actions. We have also developed strategic principles to guide our approach.
