Nov. 14, 2008 - FedEx has set bold new environmental performance targets for its FedEx Express aircraft and ground fleets. The carrier says that, by 2020, it will reduce carbon dioxide emissions from its FedEx Express aircraft fleet by 20% and improve the fuel efficiency of its FedEx Express vehicle fleet by 20%.

The new targets were announced in FedEx's latest sustainability report, which outlines significant strides in fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.

FedEx reports that its aircraft fleet is saving nearly a million gallons of fuel each month by using ground power instead of aircraft power to drive on airport tarmacs. The company is also upgrading its fleet with new Boeing 757 and 777 planes, which are designed to reduce fuel consumption while increasing payload capacity.

On the road, more than a quarter of FedEx Express's ground fleet has been converted to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. By "right-sizing" vehicles according to route requirements, the company has saved more than 45 gallons of fuel over the past three years.

FedEx also notes that employee-driven initiatives to streamline flight plans and other business operations have contributed significantly to meeting the company's emissions-reduction goals.

"FedEx recognizes that one of the most responsible steps we and the industrial sector can take for our businesses, society and the environment is to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels," says Frederick W. Smith, FedEx Corp. president and chief executive officer. "Our role is to connect the world in responsible and resourceful ways. The world faces big challenges, and we believe that collective, sustained efforts can create greater possibilities for people, businesses and nations worldwide."

FedEx currently operates the largest fleet of commercial hybrid-electric trucks in North America, recently celebrating 2 million miles of service in its hybrid trucks. The carrier says that, despite running behind on its goal to having 30,000 hybrids on the road by 2013, it will continue to push its green-fleet agenda.

To view FedEx's latest sustainability report, click here.