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Since 1919, Cummins has transformed the trajectory of global power solutions with its innovative designs, manufacturing and distribution processes, and power-generating products. Today, the company is continuing that legacy by taking the lead on environmental stewardship and climate action. Those efforts have resulted in Destination Zero, a vision to reduce the company’s environmental impact while assisting its customers in the energy transition. Several strides have already been made since those goals were announced.
Clean Air Act Settlement
Resulting in the largest clean air settlement to date for an alleged violation of the Clean Air Act, Cummins agreed to pay $1.68 billion to the US and California and accrued a total of $59 million for the estimated costs of executing recalls for certain engines primarily used in pickup truck applications. Senior Counsel of Mobile Emissions Cherly Gonzalez was instrumental in helping the company partner with regulators and conduct an extensive internal review.
Faurecia Acquisitions
In May 2023, Cummins entered into an agreement with auto company Faurecia to purchase two of its commercial vehicle manufacturing plants and related activities. According to a press release, the acquisition added significant technical and manufacturing resources and enhances Cummin’s existing mixer portfolio.
Cary Chenanda, former vice president of Cummins Emissions Solutions, said the acquisition builds on “a long partnership history.”
“This proposed acquisition would enable both organizations to meet long-term strategic goals and would preserve business operations and employment for talented employees within the two plants and related tech centers, while creating value for customers and suppliers across the entire supply chain,” Chenanda said. “Cummins is committed to meeting or exceeding global emissions regulations now and in the coming years, and I am energized by this unique opportunity to gain experienced technical and manufacturing resources that would carry us far into the future.”
Advancing Zero and Improving Engine-Based Products
Cummins has identified internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies as an important transitory step for the trucking industry as the company pursues net-zero carbon by 2050. The ICE technologies focus on advanced diesel, gas, and hydrogen, which will provide clean, cost-effective power and help lower emissions from newly sold products by 25 percent by 2030.
Mike Fowler, former director and general manager of on-highway business for Cummins Asia Pacific, said such technology is key in transitioning to lower carbon solutions as economic, operational, and infrastructure challenges of zero-emission vehicles are being solved.
“There are still significant efficiency gains Cummins can achieve with diesel internal combustion technology to further reduce greenhouse gas (CO2) emissions and atmospheric pollutants,” Fowler said in a press release. “Heavy-duty trucking today requires the power density and operational range that only diesel internal combustion can provide.”
Social Responsibility
Cummins recognizes that its net-zero carbon goal will be enabled by a diverse, inclusive, and dynamic workplace. With more than 150 employee resource groups (ERG) worldwide, the company provides opportunities for leadership training, cross-cultural learning, and professional development. The Cummins Global Inclusion Leadership Council is another outlet for ERG participants to collaborate and amplify the voices they represent.
Cummins’s 2030 Goal
Cummins aims to create a circular life cycle plan for every part to use less, use better, and use again. Here is what it wants to achieve by 2030:
50% reduction of absolution greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from facilities and operations
25% reduction of scope 3 absolute lifetime GHG emissions from newly sold production
55 million metric tons of scope 3 GHG emissions reduction from products in the field
50% reduction of volatile organic compounds emissions from paint and coating operations
Generate 25% less waste in facilities and operations as percent of revenue
30% reduction of absolute water consumption in facilities and operations
100% reuse or recycling of packaging plastics and eliminating single-use plastics in dining facilities, employee amenities, and events
Source: Cummins Planet 2050
