Automotive Suppliers Recognized for Environmental Leadership
The Suppliers Partnership for the Environment (SP), a collaborative effort between global automakers and their suppliers, has celebrated environmental leadership within the automotive supply chain. At their recent quarterly membership meeting in Marysville, Ohio, SP presented its 2024 Environmental Leadership Awards to companies and individuals demonstrating significant progress in sustainable practices. These awards serve as a platform to highlight achievements, foster knowledge sharing, and inspire further advancements towards a more sustainable automotive industry.
Honoring Environmental Champions
The 2024 awards were presented in four categories:
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Community Impact:
Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. received this award for its impactful Earth Day initiative. In partnership with the Pike County Soil and Water Conservation District and other community organizations, the company has distributed over 3,300 trees to local schools and organizations since 2017. Employee volunteers have also engaged nearly 3,000 students in environmental stewardship education, leaving a lasting legacy of environmental responsibility.*
Creativity in Implementing Sustainable Practices:
Lear Corporation was recognized for its innovative development of ReNewKnitTM, a lightweight and recyclable warp-knit textile material made from recycled plastic bottles. This sustainable material is produced using 100% renewable electricity, demonstrating Lear’s commitment to environmentally conscious manufacturing practices.*
Demonstrating Environmental Innovation:
Blackburn Energy was honored for its RelGenTM hybrid charging technology, which significantly reduces Scope 3 emissions in automotive carrier fleets. In a pilot project with General Motors and a carrier partner, Moon Star Express, Blackburn’s technology achieved a remarkable 16% fuel economy improvement, equating to a 1.2-mile per gallon increase. This innovation eliminates the need for overnight engine idling and promises a rapid one-year return on investment.*
Shining Stars:
Three individuals were recognized for their exceptional leadership and contributions to environmental sustainability within the SP organization. Alex Phan of Magna was acknowledged for his efforts in reducing packaging waste by addressing inconsistencies in automotive wood pallet specifications. Dan Esch of Ford Motor Company was commended for his continuous pursuit of better methods for recovering automotive materials and his contributions to SP initiatives promoting responsible waste management. Sarah Tea of General Motors was celebrated for her leadership in driving progress on nature-based solutions and circular economy initiatives within the industry, particularly her work on sustainable packaging.A Shared Vision for Sustainability
Kevin Butt, Senior Director of Environmental Sustainability at Toyota Motor North America and Chair of SP’s Board of Directors, expressed pride in recognizing the award winners. He emphasized the crucial role each recipient plays in driving meaningful change across the automotive industry, setting an inspiring example for others to emulate. These achievements highlight the collective efforts of automotive manufacturers and suppliers to create a more sustainable future for the industry and the planet.