Five Highlights From Toyota’s Annual North American Environmental Report
Toyota launched the bZ4X, its first-ever all-electric vehicle, to further its sustainability efforts in the North American market. The company is well underway with its Environmental Challenge 2050, which focuses on six core areas to create net positive impacts on society. With initiatives such as rolling out battery-electric vehicles, decreasing plastic waste and restoring water, Toyota is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint. As part of Earth Month, Toyota issued the 2022 North American Environmental Report highlighting five notable achievements.
First Mass-Market All-Electric Vehicle
Transportation is responsible for 25% of global emissions. Toyota, a mobility company, is committed to helping the world transition to a low-carbon economy. Toyota has developed the first mass-market all-electric vehicle (the bZ4X), as well as other electric and hybrid vehicles.
Support of Water Restoration Efforts -
Toyota promotes water conservation through funding for nonprofit organizations and community efforts to educate people about water conservation. The Nature Conservancy's initiatives have already resulted in 132 million gallons of water returned to the Hardy River. Toyota is focused on protecting water resources and sharing its know-how to help scale up conservation efforts.
Increase Plastic Weight Reduction -
Toyota strives for a more eco-sensitive and recycle-driven business, reducing packaging materials used. To that end, the company employs over 60,000 returnable packaging modules and racks instead of wooden pallets and cardboard boxes. Between 2018 and 2022, there was a 19% reduction in the weight of plastic packaging procured. 93% of all waste generated was recycled, reused or repurposed in 2021.
Expanded Pollinator Habitat Developments -
Toyota prioritizes protecting all species in their natural habitats, understanding that when species become extinct, it affects other species negatively. Human activity is a major contributor to biodiversity loss and climate change. To safeguard critical habitats and threatened species, protected areas are designated worldwide. Toyota partners with nonprofit organizations to defend these areas, certify projects with the Wildlife Habitat Council®, and educate employees and communities about biodiversity. Through its collaboration with Pollinator Partnership (P2), Toyota has developed 1,547 acres of pollinator habitats. An additional 375 acres have been developed through its partnership with WHC, bringing the total number of acres to 1,922.
Ramped up Supplier and Dealership Sustainability Efforts-
Toyota strives to work with its suppliers, dealers, and customers to create the best products and reduce CO2 emissions. The company published an updated Green Supplier Requirements in 2022 with a 3% annual reduction target. Over 1,900 Toyota and Lexus dealerships in North America participate in initiatives like Toyota Image II and Lexus Vision USA to incorporate LED lighting, windows for natural light, and solar panels for sustainable construction and renovation projects.