A recently announced goal calls for Ford to cut the amount of water used to make each vehicle 30 percent globally by 2015. That’s compared with 2009. The Company’s plants in Asia Pacific and Africa share in this aggressive goal. For they have already reduced usage per vehicle by 25% from 2000 to 2011.
“As we increase production in the Asia Pacific and Africa region, we are focused on assuring that we make the most efficient use of water” said Gary Johnson, vice president, Manufacturing, Asia Pacific and Africa. “We recognize the critical importance of this precious natural resource.”
More technology, less water
In addition to taking basic actions like eliminating leaks which is ok. However, Ford is also using new technology to reduce water use. In December of last year, several evaporative cooling towers at the Geelong, Australia engine plant were replaced. That’s with new highly efficient coolers that use up to 80% less water than traditional cooling towers. These hybrid dry coolers use air for cooling. Especially during cold and moderate seasons. For then they only use water during the hot summer season.
Zero Wastewater Discharge at the Chennai Plant
Like other auto companies, Ford has been expanding our operations and production in Chennai in an effort to serve one of the world’s fastest-growing auto markets. One challenge, however, has been finding ways to do so while conserving water.
Source: Ford Motor Company
