3.20.2006 ET

(CSRwire) Santa Monica, Calif. - The LOHAS Forum, the leading annual gathering of thought and opinion leaders in the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) marketplace, announced today that Ford Motor Company will be Stakeholder Sponsor of the LOHAS 10 Forum. This is the third consecutive year Ford has sponsored the Forum, as LOHAS celebrates its 10th anniversary. The LOHAS 10 Forum is the premiere conference that unites celebrities, media executives and Fortune 500 businesses, as well any persons or businesses that are focused on health, the environment, social justice, personal development and sustainable living. The Forum will take place April 26 -28 at the Fairmont Hotel in Santa Monica, Calif.

By signing on for a third year, Ford demonstrates its commitment to strengthening its connection with eco-conscious consumers and playing an active role in bringing about the transition to greater economic, social and environmental sustainability.

"Ford has been a steadfast supporter of ours over the past few years and we are thrilled that they continue to support our vision of a sustainable future," said Andy Marks, Partner in MATTER Entertainment, Co-Executive Producers of LOHAS 10 Forum. "Ford has demonstrated leadership among its peers in developing alternative fuel, and sustainable technologies and business practices, and to their credit, have been a valued and consistent contributor to the often forthright dialogue we seek to foster at the LOHAS Forum. We are excited to have them aboard for a third year."

As part of Ford's ongoing dedication to improve fuel economy and to lower greenhouse gas emissions, it is increasing hybrid production and research vehicles intended to help chart a course to a hydrogen-powered future. In a speech at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., Bill Ford, CEO of Ford Motor Company, outlined key initiatives to secure America's energy and manufacturing, including alternative fuels initiatives and development of tax credits for companies working to improve manufacturing efficiency.

"Ford Motor Company continues to support LOHAS, because we see a convergence between what makes a business successful and competitive and what's right for the environment and right for society," said Niel Golightly, Ford Motor Company Director of Sustainable Business Strategies. "For Ford, sustainability is not a philanthropic mission - something to do with profits made from the business. Instead, sustainability contributes to those profits by effectively managing the social, environmental, and economic capitol of our business. LOHAS Forum is an ideal venue for Ford to share and learn ideas that contribute to the health of both our environment and our business."

A key part of Ford's sustainable strategy is introducing new hybrid vehicles. Ford currently offers the Ford Escape Hybrid - the most fuel-efficient SUV on earth - and Mariner Hybrid. New additions to the hybrid line will include the Mazda Tribute Hybrid in 2007, as well as the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid in 2008. Ford will introduce four more hybrid vehicles by 2010, with plans to produce 250,000 hybrids a year globally by end of the decade.

LOHAS 10 Forum
Since its inception in 1996, LOHAS has been the catalyst for the adoption of sustainable living and environment-friendly practices within the North American and global business community. The LOHAS 10 Forum features highly influential speakers and panelists who address and explore some of today's most prominent issues and business challenges, in the world of health and wellness."

Other events include movie screenings, musical performances, culinary experiences, demonstrations and networking receptions. LOHAS 10 is followed by the Inspiration Film Festival, which showcases uplifting films, April 28-30, 2006. For more information about LOHAS, LOHAS10 or the Inspiration Film Festival visit www.lohas.com.

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