Automotive

From Shirts to Insulators: Recycled Honda Uniforms Find New Utility in Vehicles

Published

2 years ago

August 13, 2023

Daily News Staff

August 10, 2023

— MARYSVILLE, Ohio

Recycled Honda uniforms are shredded into fibers and repurposed for insulation in new Honda and Acura automobiles
Uniform recycling program reduces waste to landfill from Honda manufacturing and R&D facilities in Alabama, Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio
Honda’s “Triple Action to Zero” approach focuses on “resource circulation” to make new products from 100% sustainable materials by 2050

Honda associates put a lot into the products they make, now including the shirts right off their backs. Honda is advancing a recycling initiative that takes uniforms worn by associates at its U.S. manufacturing and R&D facilities and transforms them into sound-absorbing insulation for use in Honda and Acura automobiles. This program diverts approximately 45,000 pounds of uniforms from reaching landfills each month as Honda works toward its commitment to use 100% sustainable materials in its products in the future. Watch a video of the uniform recycling process at https://honda.us/UniformRecycling.

Recycled Honda Uniforms Find New Utility in Vehicles

Honda has established a global “Triple Action to Zero” approach, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, use of 100% clean energy and resource circulation (100% sustainable materials), by 2050. Achieving that goal – which targets zero environmental impact – will require innovative solutions, including how Honda sources materials for new products by recycling and reusing material from end-of-life vehicles and Honda operations.

“To achieve our Triple Zero goal of 100% sustainable material use, we need to take every possible opportunity to recycle materials at end of life for reuse in our products, thereby minimizing our utilization of virgin materials,” said Negar Gilsinger, manager of Resource Circulation for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “By maximizing end-of-life material recycling, we are giving our uniforms a second life in Honda and Acura vehicles.”

The Honda uniform recycling program leverages cross-industry collaboration between Honda and its uniform suppliers Aramark and Cintas Corporation, as well as insulation supplier UGN Automotive and textile recycler Leigh Fibers. Uniforms from Honda production and R&D facilities in Alabama, Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio are recycled and reused in five different insulator parts on all nine Honda and four Acura models made in North America. In the future, Honda plans to expand the uniform recycling program to other facilities in North America.

“Collaborating with Honda suppliers in the uniform recycling program has brought great value to our supply chain sustainability efforts,” said Rob Long, senior procurement specialist with Honda North American Indirect Procurement. “As Honda works to advance sustainability, we appreciate our suppliers’ efforts to innovate their business operations to reduce waste and give new life to our Honda uniforms.”

More than 380,000 pounds of uniforms have been recycled since the program launched at the end of 2021. The uniforms Honda associates wear have always been an important part of the company’s culture and success, symbolizing Honda’s “One Team” approach, which promotes collaboration and the understanding that the ideas of all associates are valued.

Transforming Uniforms into Insulation
Honda associate uniforms that are cleaned by uniform suppliers – Aramark, at Honda Indiana and Ohio facilities, and Cintas Corporation, at Alabama and North Carolina facilities – are evaluated after washing. If the uniforms are undamaged, they are sent back to associates to wear. When uniforms are designated for reuse in Honda and Acura vehicles, they are baled and sent to Leigh Fibers, which specializes in reprocessing and custom-blending fiber-based materials.

At Leigh Fibers’ facility, the uniforms are shredded into material that meets the required fiber grade for use as vehicle insulators. Zippers and buttons from the uniforms are first extracted and collected so that no metal or plastic goes through the shredding process. Then the material gets blended into mixed fibers and tested to ensure the fiber material meets the fiber length requirements. The newly reprocessed fibers are then packaged and delivered to insulation supplier UGN.

UGN blends, consolidates and trims the fibers into material that is molded into insulation and returned to Honda auto manufacturing plants for new vehicle production. Typically, UGN creates insulation from post-industrial fibers, which are sourced from textile companies, and polyester sourced from recycled water bottles. The uniform recycling program marks the first time Honda and UGN are using post-consumer textile waste for sustainable insulation material.

“It is part of UGN’s history and culture to maximize recycled content in our parts, reduce landfill by recycling our own by-products, and promote circular, mono-material technologies that enable end-of-life vehicle recycling,” said Pranav Singh, director of Purchasing & Packaging for UGN Automotive. “Reusing Honda uniforms contributes to these efforts by increasing the amount of recycled materials available for insulators and opens the door to other post-consumer textile waste projects.”

Expanding Recycled Materials in Vehicles
The uniform recycling program builds on Honda’s longstanding commitment to reduce waste and incorporate higher recycled content in Honda and Acura vehicles. This includes working with suppliers to transform post-industrial textile scrap, such as fibers from denim, into vehicle insulation/absorption material. In collaboration with UGN, Honda annually reuses approximately 2,800 tons of recycled post-industrial textile waste – equivalent to 5.6 million pairs of jeans – and 3,000 tons of post-consumer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles – equivalent to 6 million water bottles – for vehicle sound-absorbing insulation.

Other approaches to using sustainable materials in Honda and Acura vehicles have included soybean-based foam for vehicle headrests, recycled plastic water bottles and recycled Honda car bumpers for wheel liners, plant-based material for the seat fabric in the 2019 Acura RDX and Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid vehicle, and processed volcanic rocks for the roof liner in the 2003 Honda Element.

To learn more about Honda’s Triple Action to Zero approach and the concept of resource circulation, read Our Perspective, “We Have Set a Great Big Goal: Nothing.”

About Honda’s Commitment to the Environment
Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its “Triple Action to Zero” approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040.

To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America.

Source: Honda

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News

Nissan Reduces Pricing for 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder: A Commitment to Value?

Published

2 weeks ago

April 6, 2025

Rod Washington

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.

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Automotive

The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

🚗✨ Exciting news! The Nissan Frontier has been crowned the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” at the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge! 🏆 Manufactured in Canton and powered by cutting-edge technology, this remarkable vehicle showcases top-notch craftsmanship and innovation. Proud to celebrate our local talent! #NissanFrontier #CoolestThing #MississippiMakers #Innovation

Published

2 weeks ago

April 5, 2025

Rod Washington

2025 Nissan Frontier. Image Credit: Nissan Motors

CANTON, Miss. – The Nissan Frontier has earned the prestigious title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by winning the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge, an event organized by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. This accolade highlights the Frontier’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive automotive market.

Manufactured at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility in Canton, Mississippi, the Frontier showcases the dedication and expertise of the skilled workforce in the region. Each vehicle is meticulously assembled, combining quality engineering with contemporary design to meet the needs of today’s drivers.

Powering the Frontier are robust engines built at Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee, further adding to the vehicle’s impressive performance and reliability. The collaboration between these two locations reflects Nissan’s commitment to supporting local economies while producing high-quality vehicles that American customers have come to love.

The recognition of the Nissan Frontier as the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” is not just a win for Nissan; it underscores the rich manufacturing heritage of the state and the remarkable talent within its workforce. As Nissan continues to innovate and evolve, the Frontier stands as a testament to what can be achieved when craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

With this accolade, the Nissan Frontier solidifies its place as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, proving that great things can indeed come from Mississippi.

Link to the Nissan Press Release: The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

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Consumer Corner

Cost-Efficient Car Detailing at Home

Published

1 month ago

March 12, 2025

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) Having your car professionally detailed is likely to set you back a chunk of change, but with the right supplies and a little spare time, you can get similar results at home.

Whether you’re washing away winter grime or just giving your ride some overdue attention, follow these steps to get your vehicle in tip-top shape.

Assess your vehicle’s condition. If there’s a specific problem you need to address, such as stains or excessive insect buildup on your front bumper, those are areas you’ll want to focus your time, energy and budget.

Purchase the necessary supplies. A car cleaning kit could simplify the shopping process, but you may need to supplement with additional items, such as a spot treater, to achieve the best results. The essentials include a sturdy bucket, washing mitt, soft bristle brush, soft rags, a dust rag, automotive soap, glass cleaner, a vinyl or interior-safe cleanser, vacuum and wax, if you wish.

Empty the vehicle. Removing all your personal possessions provides a blank slate for cleaning and prevents you from having to work around or worry about damaging your belongings. Also remove any elements of the vehicle you may want to clean separately, such as floor mats, console inserts and other removable pieces.

Tackle the interior. Start by removing debris from crevices and wiping away dust and other gunk. Then, with the initial layer of mess removed, go back and wipe down all surfaces using a cleanser. You can also clean the interior windows at this stage, and be sure to wipe down the console, especially if you have a touchscreen that is covered with fingerprints.

Vacuum thoroughly. Using a small vacuum or hose with strong suction, pay special attention to high-traffic areas and spaces where trash and debris tend to settle, such as between the seat and console. The floorboards will likely need the most attention, but don’t overlook the seats, and especially the area where the seat and back meet as this crevice can trap a great deal of dirt.

Clean the floor mats. Chances are good your floor mats rival the exterior for the dirt and grime they accumulate. Depending on how heavily soiled they are, and especially if they’re carpet-style mats, you may want to shampoo them after a deep vacuuming to remove stubborn stains.

Return belongings to the interior. Before you add everything back into your vehicle, take time to wipe down items and sort out any unnecessary clutter. It’s a good time to reorganize your storage areas to be sure the items you use frequently are in easy reach. You can also replenish supplies such as facial tissue and hand sanitizer.

Wash the exterior. Follow the instructions on the product’s label to wash your automobile’s exterior. Pay attention to special requirements such as allowing time for a bug remover to soak. In general, start with a rinse, followed by scrubbing with a mitt then an all-over rinse. Use a chamois towel or other drying cloth to avoid water spots.

Add finishing touches. If you’re using wax or planning on specialty treatments like tire cleaning, those will be among your final steps. Last but not least, clean the exterior windows with glass cleaner to remove streaks and leave them sparkling.

Find more practical vehicle maintenance tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com