CDP lauds Ford for its water conservation efforts

Ford has once again received an ‘A’ grade for its water conservation efforts from CDP, the international not-for-profit that drives sustainable economies. The company also received an ‘A’ grade for its climate change efforts.

Ford is one of 73 global companies to be awarded an ‘A’ grade for water management, determined to meet long-term aspirational goals. The company aims to reduce water use by nearly three-fourths by 2020 as it works toward zero drinkable water use for vehicle manufacturing as part of its recently updated water strategy.

“Water is a precious resource,” says Andy Hobbs, Ford director, Environmental Quality Office. “We recognise that every person has the right to accessible, clean and affordable drinking water, and we aspire to ultimately have zero drinking water withdrawal for our manufacturing processes, and are proud that CDP is recognising our efforts to remain a global water conservation leader.”

Ford has been working to reduce water use since 2000 with its Global Water Management Initiative, and saved 10 billion gallons of water between 2000 and 2015, a decrease of 61 percent. And it doesn’t stop there – the company aims to save an additional 30 percent per vehicle between 2015 and 2020.

Ford is among 10 percent of companies participating in CDP’s water program to be awarded an “A” list rating, in recognition of its actions in the last reporting year to manage water in a sustainable way.

“We congratulate Ford Motor Company for achieving a position on CDP’s water ‘A’ list,” said Paul Dickinson, Executive Chair, CDP. “Climate change, industrialisation and population growth are putting unprecedented pressure on water supplies, and Ford is stepping up for a water secure world, moving us towards a tipping point on environmental action.”

Ford says it has collaborated with several other leading organisations over the years to increase transparency and the depth of environmental initiatives. The company recently pledged a commitment to the Business Alliance for Water and Climate’s ‘Improve Water Security’ initiative – the first automaker to do so.

The annual sustainability report has tracked the company’s comprehensive approach to managing the issues related to climate change, air quality and conservation, and identifying opportunities that have significant impacts across the business since 2000.

While Ford has worked to improve fuel economy, reduce emissions and create sustainable facilities for nearly 20 years, there is more work to be done.

“Every day, we work to do the right things for our customers, communities and the planet,” said Kim Pittel, group vice president, sustainability, environment and safety engineering. “Through our integrated sustainability approach, we’re embedding sustainability best practices throughout our company and our supply chain to help make people’s lives better.”