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 See details of our Carbon Offset Program.
Continental Airlines is committed to promoting environmental responsibility within its culture.
Global climate change is an important issue, and Continental recognizes that greenhouse gas emissions are everyone's concern. We recognize the importance of directly addressing this issue, even though we do not have all the answers.
The two primary means by which aviation contributes to global emissions are through aircraft operations and airport ground equipment, and Continental is committed to reducing emissions from these sources. In order to minimize the impact on the environment from our fleet and ground service equipment, Continental will continue to invest in the most effective technology and operating procedures feasible.
In addition, we will construct airport facilities in an environmentally responsible manner and will continue to monitor the environmental impact of our business.
See facts on how Continental is promoting environmental responsibility within its fleet, operations and procedures, ground services and facilities (PDF 445KB).
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Background Information on Continental and the Environment
Our Fleet
Today, Continental is nearly 35 percent more fuel efficient for every mile a passenger flies than in 1997. In order to further reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency, we will continue to invest in efficient and advanced aircraft technology. We will also continue to apply responsible operating procedures to further reduce the impact of our fleet on the environment. Furthermore, we will work with national and international governments to improve air traffic control systems so that aircraft routings will result in fewer emissions.
Our Ground Equipment
Continental is committed to using electric rather than fossil-fuel-powered ground equipment wherever feasible. At our Houston hub, we have been using electric ground equipment since 2002 and we will have reduced our emissions from ground equipment approximately 75 percent by the end of 2007. We have begun a cold-weather test of this electric ground equipment at our New York/Newark hub. We are also testing the use of alternative fuel and fuel additives for ground service equipment.
Our Facilities
Continental is committed to constructing our airport facilities according to the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star standards when feasible. As part of LEED, Continental will integrate high-efficiency components into facilities and implement programs to conserve energy, save natural resources, reduce emissions and minimize the impact on the environment.
Cultural Awareness
Continental recognizes that the preservation of the environment is an essential part of our business practices. We are committed to promoting a culture that is focused on being environmentally sensitive as we work with our employees, customers, suppliers, industry organizations and the communities we serve in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
In 2007, FORTUNE magazine named Continental one of the top ten global companies across all industries in the Community/Environment category on its list of Global Most Admired Companies.
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