Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has been releasing an annual report on corporate responsibility performance for 23 years. But 2018's 23rd edition is special, because it features four new strategic focus areas.
“Today’s consumers favor convenience, safety, and advanced technologies, and many are socially conscious—wanting the brands they buy to be a part of solving the environmental and social challenges of our time,” said Richard Kramer, chairman, CEO and president. “Goodyear has been listening, preparing and innovating and we are excited to share how we plan to help shape the new mobility ecosystem and create long-term value for our stakeholders.”
The four new focus areas are:
1. Sustainable Sourcing. Goodyear defines sustainable sourcing responsibly sourcing the materials used for its operations and products. In 2018, Goodyear formalized its commitment to responsibly source natural rubber with the creation of a Natural Rubber Procurement Policy, which works to address various social, environmental, and economic concerns and opportunities associated with the production of this important commodity.
It is also developing new materials, such as a soybean oil tread compound, rice husk ash silica, dandelion rubber and a Biolsoprene monomer (for synthetic rubber).
2. Responsible Operations. Goodyear says its Strategy Roadmap speaks to commitment to operational excellence. "Our day-to-day efforts to deliver high-quality products in an efficient manner are supported by a culture of safety and health."
In 2018, Goodyear was recognized by Honda North America with the Supplier Sustainability Award, and received the Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. Excellent Performance Award for superior performance related to safety, environmental stewardship, quality, delivery and partnership.
3. Advanced Mobility. Developing advanced forms of mobility, "especially focused on autonomous, connected, and electric vehicles," are transforming the tire industry and have the potential to make driving safer and more sustainable, says Goodyear. "Goodyear is positioned for success through our commitment to innovation, and we have already made several great strides toward shaping the mobility revolution.
"In 2018, Goodyear launched a proactive services pilot program to provide predictive analytic maintenance for fleet tires. With our proprietary artificial intelligence technology, Goodyear will help fleets predict when their tires need service or replacement, improving overall tire management and maximizing uptime across the fleet."
4. Inspiring Culture. "Engaging and enabling our associates to realize their full potential is one of the core tenants of Goodyear’s Strategy Roadmap," says the company. Since 2016, The Manufacturing Institute has recognized Goodyear associates annually with STEP Ahead awards. The prestigious honor acknowledges women in manufacturing who have demonstrated leadership skills and excellence both in their careers and communities.
"None of the above accomplishments would be possible without our associates, who are the driving force behind Goodyear’s success," says Kramer. "Our team operates with the highest integrity and embraces change, collaboration and seizes opportunities to deliver increased value to our stakeholders.
"Together, we are striving to foster a culture of safety and wellness and a diverse and inclusive work environment where all can thrive, as part of our continual efforts to make Goodyear the tire brand of choice.”
Goodyear follows the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard in its corporate responsibility reporting.
