Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock or one of those rapidly melting glaciers in Greenland, you know that the environment is big news today.  Of course, it wasn’t always.  There was a time (not so long ago, either), when the scientific community believed in global cooling, when aerosol sprays contained CFCs and the hole in the ozone layer was growing larger by the second.  However, today’s consumers are much more sensitive to environmental issues ranging from global warming and melting ice sheets to the plight of freshwater mussels.  To remain in accord with shifting consumer perceptions, numerous automakers have taken on a remarkably green tint lately, including Honda.

However, if you think that Honda is a latecomer to the green initiative, or just “jumping on the bandwagon,” think again.  Honda actually helped to pioneer the “green” aspect of automobiles, long before the first Toyota Prius ever rolled off the assembly line for consumer purchase.  What has Honda accomplished in their long history that’s worthy of the “green” notation?  Here, you’ll find quite a few of those accomplishments and hopefully learn a bit about why this company remains so high in terms of popularity.

The First Mass-Produced Hybrid – While Toyota would undoubtedly like you to think that the Prius has remained the uncontested king of the hybrids, Honda was actually the first automaker to offer a mass-produced hybrid for consumers.  The Insight debuted to wide acceptance and has pioneered the way for automakers coming later to the scene.

Low Emissions Requirements – When it comes to stringent emissions standards, California rules the nation.  Until Honda came along, no automaker met these rules.  However, not only did Honda meet and even exceed California’s emissions regulations, but they did so before the law even went into effect, showing just how seriously the company takes this sort of thing.

The Greenest Automaker In the World – The UCS (Union of Concerned Scientists) is a unique brain trust, devoted to recognizing companies and developments capable of changing the world.  This organization voted Honda the greenest automaker in the word, not just once, but four times consecutively.  How’s that for a track record?

FCX Clarity – You’ve probably heard about fuel cell vehicles.  You’ve probably heard that a consumer version is years away.  However, Honda’s FCX Clarity will debut in 2010 for consumer use.  In addition, the Clarity was voted the World’s Greenest Car by the New York International Auto Show.

As you can see, Honda has a singular drive and determination to remain at the leading edge of “green” innovation.  While numerous other companies have followed suit, Honda was the first company on the scene.  While others have tried to mimic Honda’s success, the company has continued to advance environmentally friendly manufacturing techniques and created some of the greenest cars, minivans and SUVs on the planet.

Therefore, if you’re of a green frame of mind, Honda should certainly be one of the first automakers that you look to when in need of a new car.

Tags: Green Honday, Honda, new honda