# Sustainable Numbers Equals 2013 Ford Fusion

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/05/sustainable-numbers-equals-2013-ford-fusion/
- Published: 2012-05-31T00:23:40-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

DEARBORN, Mich., May 29, 2012 – Ford’s new [Fusion](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/03/the-popular-fusion-hybrid-continues-its-reign-as-americas-most-fuel-efficient-midsize-sedan/)
will be available this fall. It features materials that are lighter and also improve
fuel efficiency plus safety. The use of strong steel and aluminum makes it tough.
The Fusion is a great option for drivers. It’s also promoting sustainability while
maintaining quality. With these advancements, Ford aims to lead in the midsize sedan
market. This shows its commitment to the environment and providing an enjoyable 
driving experience.

 * Denim material equivalent to slightly more than two average-sized pairs of blue
   jeans
 * 38.9 clear [plastic 16-ounce recycled](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/09/14-ways-to-live-the-most-eco-friendly-life/)
   bottles, which are perfect for various storage purposes, offering a lightweight
   and durable option for both personal and commercial use.

“Building vehicles with great fuel economy is our top priority. It [reduces](https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/01/5-sustainable-tips-to-reduce-emissions-from-farming/)
our impact on the environment,” says Carrie Majeske, Ford product sustainability
manager. “With each new product design, we increase the use of renewable and [recyclable](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/02/how-smart-homes-lead-to-greener-lifestyles/)
materials in our cars, utilities, and trucks. This approach helps to lessen environmental
impact.”

 Additionally, it enhances the overall efficiency of our vehicles. As we innovate,
we are adapting to the changing landscape of automotive technology. We strive to
keep sustainability at the core of our mission. Incorporating sustainable practices
and materials meets consumer demands. Moreover, it reflects our commitment to a 
greener future. Each step we take toward this goal shows our dedication to minimizing
waste. We promote environmental stewardship across all aspects of our products.”

![Infographic showing the sustainable materials used in the 2013 ford fusion including
denim equivalent to two pairs of jeans recycled plastic bottles and soybeans](https://
i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/image5.jpg?resize=420%2C312&
quality=52&ssl=1 "Sustainable Numbers Equals 2013 Ford Fusion - The Green Living
Guy")

Infographic showcasing the sustainable materials in the 2013 Ford Fusion including
denim recycled plastic bottles and soybeans

## ⏎ Fusion’s jean pool

The all-new Ford Fusion is very quiet thanks to its Noise, Vibration, and Harshness(
NVH) control, meeting high standards. It uses post-industrial, re-used cotton to
reduce outdoor sounds. Each Fusion includes the denim equivalent of over two pairs
of average American blue jeans. This cuts down road, wind, and engine noise. With
additional noise-reducing methods Ford engineers have used for years, the 2013 Fusion
provides a quiet and relaxing driving experience.

### Clearly sustainable

Fusion’s North American cloth seat surfaces are made from 100 percent [REPREVE®](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/seat-fabric-in-all-new-ford-focus-electric-uses-waste-to-create-a-better-world/)
yarn, a blend of post-industrial and post-consumer waste. This means it uses materials
from industry and everyday consumers. Cloth-seat Fusion models contain the equivalent
of 38.9 recycled, clear 16-ounce plastic bottles. This fabric meets or exceeds Ford’s
durability and performance standards and has a luxurious feel.

Post-consumer plastic water and soda bottles get to collecting across the country
weekly. They undergo chopping, grinding, melting, and reformulation into chips. 
The process extrudes and textures these chips into fiber. Manufacturers use the 
fibers to create fabric. Then the fabric is:

colored

finished

and rolled for shipment.

Excess fabric from each procedure in the process recycles back into the system. 
That’s to further eliminate waste. Therefore, it’s ensuring that every piece of 
material gets utilized effectively. This approach minimizes the environmental impact
associated with textile production. It also promotes sustainability within the industry.
By integrating recycling practices into our operations, we create a closed-loop 
system. Here, discarded fabric transforms into new, usable resources. In doing so,
we reduce waste and contribute to a more responsible manufacturing process. This
respects both the planet and future generations.

## Ford Fusion Materials : Foam from soy

The foam used in seat cushions, seat backs, and head restraints is a soy-based sustainable
material. This plays a significant role in promoting environmental responsibility.
This innovative foam contains the equivalent of approximately 31,250 soybeans. It
showcases a remarkable commitment to sustainability by utilizing a renewable resource.
Furthermore, the integration of soy into the foam enhances durability and comfort.
It also reduces reliance on petroleum-based products, which have traditionally been
used in foam production. This shift supports local agriculture and contributes to
a decrease in the overall carbon footprint. This reflects a broader movement towards
eco-friendly materials in the automotive and furniture industries. The use of such
sustainable [resources is crucial in paving the way](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/06/green-job-career-guide-paving-the-way-to-a-sustainable-future/)
for a greener future. It highlights the importance of making informed choices in
product development and design.

Ford first uses soy-based foam in the Ford Mustang in 2007. This move marks a significant
shift toward sustainable manufacturing. Today, Ford integrates soy foam into every
vehicle built in North America, showcasing its commitment to innovation and environmental
responsibility. By incorporating this plant-based material, Ford reduces petroleum
production by over 5 million pounds. This demonstrates the potential of [renewable resources](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/we-sorely-need-to-develop-a-culture-of-renewability/)
in automotive production. Additionally, the initiative cuts [carbon dioxide emissions](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/02/12-reasons-plant-based-eating-is-so-good-for-the-environment/)
by more than 20 million pounds annually. This highlights the positive impact of 
[sustainable materials on climate change](https://greenlivingguy.com/2013/05/understanding-livestock-and-agricultural-emissions/).
As consumers seek eco-friendly options, Ford’s proactive approach enhances vehicle
performance and comfort. It reflects a broader commitment to ecological stewardship
in the automotive industry.

### Post-consumer materials

Every 2013 Fusion uses plastic made from [recycled car battery](https://greenlivingguy.com/2026/06/circular-ev-battery-recycling-for-a-cleaner-planet/)
casings. This choice shows Ford’s commitment to sustainability and environmental
responsibility. These post-consumer materials, previously destined for a landfill,
help reduce waste. Furthermore, they promote recycling initiatives effectively. 
This innovative approach minimizes the [carbon footprint and supports a circular economy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/01/recharged-and-electrifying-the-classic-mini-launches-into-the-future/).

You can find this plastic in various critical components of the vehicle. For example,
the fender splash shields and underbody components are ensuring durability. At the
same time, they also maintain lightweight characteristics that enhance fuel efficiency.

Annually, the Fusion uses close to 2 million pounds of re-used plastic, which is,
indeed, a remarkable figure that shows Ford’s commitment to “greener” practices.
This impressive usage not only minimizes waste but also, furthermore, demonstrates
the company and their innovative approach to [going green](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/02/trying-to-go-green-here-are-6-things-to-avoid/).
It, therefore, shows a proactive stance in dealing with environmental issues. Consequently,
it contributes to a more [sustainable car](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/05/sustainable-cars-eco-friendly-features-and-trends-to-look-out-for/)
industry. In addition, it paves the way for other manufacturers to adopt similar
methods and, crucially, prioritize the use of recycled materials in their production
processes. In doing so, Ford not only meets the demands of environmentally conscious
consumers but also plays a pivotal role in fostering a circular economy. Here, materials
are continually reused.

### Unique contributions add up

“We are holistic in reducing our environmental footprint by utilizing post-industrial(
blue jeans), post-consumer (battery cases) and sustainable materials technologies(
soy foam),” Majeske says. “We do whatever makes the most sense for each application.
This makes sense environmentally from a lifecycle perspective.

“Our customers appreciate these steps; they are also affordable and better for our
planet,” she adds. By adopting sustainable practices, we certainly improve our services
and help the environment. Each decision is thought out to ensure it fits our [commitment to going green](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/06/lyfts-committing-to-ride-hailing-electric-vehicles-explained/).
That boosts customer satisfaction and loyalty. Their greener approach appeals to
consumers who value responsible choices. As a result, we are helping contribute 
to a greener future. This method benefits us economically and encourages others 
in the industry to do the same.

[Source: Ford Motor Company](https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en.html)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
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Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
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