In biology, a mutualistic symbiotic relationship is defined as a close interaction between two species to the benefit of both -- a type of mutual altruism. At the Ford Rouge Complex in Dearborn, Michigan, where the Ford F-150 is made, there are layers upon layers of mutualism at play.
First, meet Mary Mason, a design engineer at Ford Motor Company. For the past three years, she has been Ford's unofficial beekeeper, tending to the 80,000 honeybees kept on site.
The bees, in turn, help pollinate the Sedum flowers growing on the Dearborn Truck Plant's living roof. Sedum is a genus of low-growing groundcover able to store a significant amount of water in its succulent leaves.
The green roof itself is supporting the environment, both locally, and as part of a global strategy.
It is able to hold an inch of rainfall, reducing runoff, and thus improving water quality. It has also become a sheltered habitat for a number of bird species. Living roofs also provide dramatic insulation benefits, reducing the amount of energy used by the factory while simultaneously absorbing carbon from the air.
Finally, there's you.
Every individual is part of the symbiosis of the planet -- it's up to you whether that relationship is mutualistic, or parasitic. It doesn't take a big lifestyle change to start reducing your impact on the environment. Look for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and EcoBoost® engine options as you search new Ford vehicles in Indianapolis.