Ford is using renewable energy sources, wherever possible, worldwide. Leading the way is the Dagenham Diesel Centre, the first automotive plant to receive 100% of its manufacturing electricity needs from on-site wind turbines. These graceful, innovative machines provide over 6 million kwh of electricity every year. And the Dagenham plant has also reduced water usage by 67% over the last five years by implementing smart recycling processes.

Elsewhere in Essex, Ford's Dunton technical centre has also signed up for green energy. The product development HQ will cut the CO2 it produces by 65 per cent – or 36,100 tonnes – by moving to electricity from renewable sources.

The Bridgend Engine Plant in Wales is the site of the largest integrated solar/photovoltaic installation at any automotive manufacturing centre in Europe. Together, 26 photovoltaic panels generate enough power to light an area of approximately 10,000 square metres. By using these panels, CO2 release will be reduced by 4,400 tonnes over the life of the plant (30 years), helping to lessen CO2 not just today but in the years to come.