Boeing says that energy use and carbon dioxide emissions at its major facilities fell 24 percent between 2002 and 2007.
In its 2008 Environment Report (PDF), Boeing says that, through the integration of environmental performance improvements and technology advancements, the CO2 emissions of its airplanes dropped by about 70 percent over the last 40 years, and the hazardous waste of its manufacturing operations dropped 30 percent between 2002 and 2007.
Boeing also reports a target of 15% fuel efficiency improvement in each new generation of commercial airplane compared to the airplanes they replace.
Other moves the company has made toward increasing its sustainability have included a partnership with GE Aviation in which Continental Airlines would be the first airline to conduct a biofuels demonstration flight that would take place in early 2009.
Boeing's other environmental initiatives include the world's first manned airplane powered by a fuel-cell.
Last year, Boeing said its 787 Dreamliner would use 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly-sized aircraft, produce fewer carbon emissions, and have quieter take-offs and landings.
Moves are being made across the airline industry to become more environmentally friendly such as eliminating paper tickets, and slowing down to save millions on fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions.
