Boeing has cut CO2 emissions at U.S. facilities 31% since 2002

Boeing has reduced carbon dioxide emissions at major U.S. facilities by 31 percent, on a revenue-adjusted basis, since 2002. During the same period, normalized for revenues, the company has reduced energy consumption 32 percent, hazardous-waste generation 38 percent and water consumption 43 percent.  

Boeing also is reporting steady environmental progress on an absolute basis, not adjusted for revenue. These are among highlights in Boeing's 2010 Environment Report, issued on May 17.

In addition to providing a detailed accounting of emissions, the report focuses on actions Boeing is taking to improve the environmental performance of it products and reduce the environmental footprint of its global operations. These include:

• Producing the world's two newest commercial airplanes, the 787 Dreamliner and the 747-8, designed to be significantly more fuel-efficient and generate lower emissions than the generation of jetliners they will replace.
• Pioneering research into sustainable biofuels for commercial and military aircraft. Made from algae and other renewable resources that do not compete with food crops for land or water, sustainable biofuels reduce greenhouse gas emissions over their lifecycle while offering the potential to lessen aviation's dependence on fossil fuels.
• Developing ways to improve the efficiency of the global air traffic control network, which will enable passengers to arrive at their gates sooner and have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial air travel by 12 percent. It is estimated that reducing the length of the average commercial flight by one minute would eliminate 4.8 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
• Working with suppliers around the world to help them reduce their environmental footprints and improve their business operations.
• Reducing the chemicals used to produce and maintain aerospace products.
• Developing solar cells, fuel cells and other clean-energy technologies.

"We recognize the importance of protecting our ecosystem," said Mary Armstrong, Boeing vice president for environment, health and safety, "and our employees are developing innovative solutions to help address the global issues of pollution and climate change."

The report provides information about the environmental footprint of Boeing's operations in the United States, Australia and Canada. It also explains actions Boeing is taking to clean up locations affected by past business practices.

To view Boeing's third annual Environment Report, visit http://www.boeing.com/aboutus/environment/environment_report_10/index.html.