Climate Change Policy and Partnerships

Over the past year, evidence of climate change has continued to mount, increasing the urgency of a coordinated, effective policy response. At the same time, the policy landscape has shifted considerably. The European Parliament passed legislation that sets new restrictions on vehicle emissions. In the United States, the new Obama Administration has stated that the passage of comprehensive federal climate change legislation is a top priority. States and federal agencies are also acting in various ways on regulatory approaches to vehicle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

At Ford, we accept that simply "not getting worse" is not good enough. The auto industry must work together with suppliers, government, the fuel industry and consumers to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) levels from transportation so we can help stabilize atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Accomplishing this goal will require that all sectors of the economy, including the transportation sector, do their share. To achieve real and lasting results, all global stakeholders must make long-term commitments for a sustainable future.

In the United States and elsewhere, we are actively advocating for comprehensive policy approaches that will provide a coherent framework for GHG emission reductions, so that companies can move forward in transforming their businesses with a clear understanding of their obligations. This section discusses climate policy developments in the United States and Europe; Ford's partnerships and engagements around climate change; and our involvement in emissions trading.