The process can apply 3 coats at once, reducing the time and energy needed to paint a vehicle. According to Ford the paint reduces greenhouse gases by 15 percent and uses 10 percent less volatile organic compounds -- an area that Ford should keep pushing on.

Paint hasn't been looked at as thoroughly as energy or packaging in terms of its sustainability, but that appears to be changing. The new wave of concern about climate change is prompting engineers and chemists to look at manufacturing costs with a new seriousness, which is good for business and our health.