Cummins Announces Major Climate Change Goals
(photo courtesy Cummins)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowCOLUMBUS, Ind – Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) has announced a major climate change initiative, setting an aspirational goal of net-zero carbon emissions within three decades for the engines it builds and the manufacturing plants it operates.
The Columbus-based powertrain manufacturer says its environmental sustainability strategy includes short and long-term goals that meet or exceed the benchmarks in the United Nations Paris agreement on climate change.
The U.S. formally began the process two weeks ago to withdraw from the Paris climate accord.
“It’s clear that government, businesses, nongovernmental organizations, and communities must unite behind swift, decisive action to address the environmental threats we face,” said Tom Linebarger, Cummins Inc. chairman and chief executive officer.
The strategy, called PLANET 2050, focuses on three priority areas: addressing climate change and air emissions, using natural resources in the most sustainable way, and improving communities.
The company laid out eight specific goals it hopes to reach by 2030, including the reduction of absolute greenhouse gas emissions from facilities and operations by 50%, reduce lifetime greenhouse gas emissions from newly sold products by 25%, and reduce volatile organic compounds emissions from paint and coating operations by 50%.
The company also intends to generate less waste, recycle more and reduce water consumption.
Linebarger says Cummins will make investments to achieve the goals, which will require new technology and capabilities.
“Our communities and our business depend on our collective response to improve the health of the planet while creating prosperity for all,” said Linebarger.
Cummins executives have testified this year before Congressional committees, advocating for legislation to include national-level emissions targets for product-specific applications, regulatory certainty, and realistic implementation schedules.
They also supported robust federal investment in research and development, grant programs for the adoption of new technologies, and tax incentives.