This morning, Ford issued a press release announcing the development of new CO2-based foam for use in automotive components. Already showing promise by meeting rigorous testing standards, Ford expects to implement the new biomaterials within five years. The components, which use carbon dioxide as feedstock, could help reduce Petroleum usage by 600 million pounds every year.
This is not the first time Ford has sought more sustainable alternatives to vehicle components. Soy foam is already in use in very Ford vehicle in North America. Other examples include recycled tires in mirror gaskets, recycled t-shirts and denim in carpeting, and recycled plastic water bottles to make REPREVE seat fabric for the 2016 F-150.
“Ford is working aggressively to lower its environmental impact by reducing its use of petroleum-based plastic and foam,” said Debbie Mielewski, Ford senior technical leader of sustainability. “This technology is exciting because it is contributing to solving a seemingly insurmountable problem – climate change. We are thrilled to be leading the charge toward reducing carbon emissions and the effects of climate change.”
".@Ford Turning Captured CO2 Into Car Parts, Expanding Healthcare Outreach in Africa https://t.co/wt7GZECo2x"
— Sustainable Brands (@SustainBrands) May 17, 2016