While driving through Maryland on a recent trip to Washington, D.C., we noticed a BP Solar plant being built right off the side of the highway. This was a glorious sight to see, and upon returning home, I promptly rushed to the computer to try to learn more about this exciting development. On its website, BP claims that "To date BP Solar modules installed worldwide will offset more than 14 million metric tons of CO2 during their lifetime. That's the equivalent of planting more than five million acres of trees!" BP also is involved in other alternative energies such as wind and hydroelectric power.
It is evident that oil companies are desperately trying to rework their image around the world, as the world around them has gained a better environmental focus. I know that BP has been revamping its advertising campaign to herald its foray into a greener world, from its redesigned logo, which was inspired by a sunflower, to its attribution of the words "Beyond Petroleum" to its acronym "BP". BP has also "brightened up" its gas stations, making sure the primary colors you see are green and white, and the stations are very well-lit. Also, BP has replaced its plastic bags with paper bags.
In any case, it is good to know that BP's transformation is not purely cosmetic, but has some true substance behind it. Yes, maybe someday we can all move "beyond petroleum", and companies like BP might be leading the way!
Steven,
I'm glad you linked to my post about BP's brand and advertising campaign. I am truly impressed with the campaign that they've launched on a global scale and you're so correct, its not just cosmetic, it's a real brand promise that they've made and are now fulfilling in many different ways.
Posted by: Donna DeClemente | April 17, 2008 at 02:23 PM