Ford is making positive strides in greening its cars and factories. The company improved the mileage of the Escape Hybrid, is using natural fabrics in its seat cushions, and is using wind power for a manufacturing plant in England.

The 2008 Escape Hybrid has been remodeled and the fuel economy has been improved by two miles per gallon, which saves the average drive about $100 per year. The new estimates are 34/30/32 (city, highway, combined), which is darn impressive for an SUV. The redesign looks much nicer according to the Chicago Sun Times, which recommends the SUV for city drivers.

Ford is also using soy as the basis for the seat cushions in the 2008 Mustang.

The company's Dagenham diesel engine plant in England uses wind power for electricity, and the machinery uses vegetable oil-based lubricants that according to the company can be used at lower concentrations than mineral oil.

So Ford has heard the message that consumers and shareholders value sustainability. Now if they could address their least fuel-efficient vehicles....