Kia Motors has released their plans for the green initiatives that will be implemented in 2013. Kia’s environmentally-conscious plan encompasses lowering fuel consumption and emissions, reducing waste and recycling obsolete vehicles. This is all part of Kia’s “commitment to put the environment at the forefront of business operations.”
The manufacturer’s attitude is not a new one – from 2002, Kia has been developing safe alternatives to the hazardous materials and chemicals used in car manufacturing, and since 2003 suppliers have been encouraged to set up environmental strategies. Waste management will allow Kia to continue and improve upon the 23% reduction in waste they have achieved in the last 10 years.
In a press release, the company states that, last year, Kia's total CO2 output fell by the equivalent of the intake of 28 million mature pine trees. They also claim there has been a 123kg reduction in their CO2 output per car since 2008. As well as the CO2 output reduction, one of Kia's Korean plants has already been granted ISO 50001 certification in recognition of its energy management efforts, and two other Korean factories will reach the same standard in 2013.
Kia will be actively encouraging its customers and suppliers to make green decisions. They will put pressure on suppliers to adopt leaner production and manufacturing methods and consciously think about the environment when making business decisions - a commendable move from the manufacturer.
In terms of customer benefits, efficient transport methods for distribution of vehicles and parts will be promoted, in a bid to provide better service. Production and distribution lines are to be monitored to optimise the number of shipments to domestic factories and to the retailer - in turn, costs for the customer will be reduced.
Best Global Green Brands
Interbrand named Kia Motors 37th in the 50 Best Global Green Brands 2013, a ranking based on sustainability, environmental performance and Kia’s focus on eco-management.
Jez Frampton, Global CEO of Interbrand, said: “In our view, the best green brands are those that are not only vital, relevant, powerful and pioneering, but also profitable, ethical and ecologically responsible. We applaud Kia Motors’ efforts aimed at sustainability in all facets of its global operations that have enabled the company to be named as one of our Best Global Green Brands 2013.”
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