The first step of the new project will be to survey its 35 top global suppliers on their energy use and estimated greenhouse gas emissions. This will allow Ford to understand the carbon footprint of its supply chain, with the data gathered eventually being used to develop the aforementioned plan.
The first suppliers to be involved in this project include companies that build seats, steering systems, tires and metal components, which require more energy to produce and thus have a larger carbon footprint. Many of these suppliers already measure their greenhouse gas emissions but the project will allow them to make a collective effort for reducing them.
“As part of Ford's efforts to create a broad-based carbon management approach for its supply chain, they will share feedback from their data collection process with World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). They are currently drafting a new standard to be used to measure indirect or Scope 3 emissions. In tandem, Ford is participating in the Carbon Disclosure Project Supply Chain Program. Ford is the only automaker participating in both initiatives,” stated the press release.
Any emission reductions achieved by suppliers would be in addition to Ford’s previously announced goal of reducing greenhouse gasses by 30 percent until 2020 (from the company’s 2006 model year baseline).
"Suppliers play an important role as we look to reduce our overall carbon footprint and drive more efficiency in an energy constrained world," said Tony Brown, Ford group vice president, Global Purchasing. "This initiative builds on our leadership in collaborating with suppliers and gives them a way to participate in solving an issue that faces our entire industry."
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