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Roche Goes Green, Buys Hybrid Cars for Sales Fleet
Move to more fuel-efficient models reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 1,033.5 tons per year
NUTLEY, N.J., April 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Roche, a company with a long-term commitment to the needs of current and future generations, announced today that the number of environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicles in its pharmaceutical sales fleet has expanded to a total of 242 vehicles as of the end of 2006. Having this number of hybrids in the Roche fleet will result in greenhouse gas emissions reductions of 1,033.5 tons and gasoline savings of more than 80,253 gallons each year.
Approximately 15 percent of Roche’s sales representatives drive company- owned hybrid vehicles — a number that is expected to grow with each semi- annual buying cycle. The company supports the development of more fuel efficient vehicles and recent efforts in Congress to improve vehicle fuel economy standards.
“Roche’s hybrid-car program demonstrates the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility,” said Terry F. Yosie, President and CEO, World Environment Center, an independent, not-for-profit, non-advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C. “Roche is a leader among pharmaceutical companies striving to make a difference, and this hybrid car program is a prime example of how all companies can make a contribution”
Roche began its hybrid-car program in July 2004 by replacing 20 conventional gasoline-powered vehicles with Toyota Prius and Ford Escape gas- electric hybrids. The improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions of these vehicles, along with positive performance reviews from the users,prompted the company to expand the program. Roche is committed to increasing its use of the Ford Escape and Toyota Prius hybrids and to expanding the selection of fuel-efficient vehicles throughout its fleet.
“Roche is devoted to conserving natural resources and improving human health, and we believe in and practice environmental sustainability,” said Jack Kace, Vice President, Corporate Environmental & Safety Affairs, Roche. “The expansion of our hybrid vehicle program is a great example of this commitment. We are using less gasoline, reducing our emissions and reducing our fleet costs as well.”
Throughout its history, Roche has been active in instituting environmentally-friendly programs, focusing on energy efficiency and waste reduction programs. In addition, the company sponsors sustainability and energy awareness days to encourage all employees to be environmentally responsible. The Roche Companies in the US have joined forces with the EPA Climate Leaders Program. Climate Leaders is a voluntary industry-government partnership that encourages companies to develop long-term comprehensive climate change strategies and set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goals. For more information, access: http://www.epa.gov/climateleaders/.
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