When we talk about sustainability at a global industrial level, we can look to the automobile industry as being one that is challenged -- and is attempting to overcome -- the issue of heavy use of natural materials, added to the planet's finite resources coupled with high consumer demand.

Kia is an example of an automobile company making a concerted, public effort to integrate sustainable business into its operations. Headquarted in Seoul, with 1.5 million vehicles each year produced in 13 plants throughout eight countries, the company has annual revenues of over 9.54 billion British pounds and employes 42,000 people.

Starting in 2003, the company came up with a plan to certify each of its plants according to ISO standards. To support the process at all levels of the company, Kia set up a comprehensive "environmental management system" to clarify and focus the company's efforts to reduce environmental impact all the way from product development to the final phase of manufacturing, and even into disassembly and recycling of core materials.

By making a formal commitment to green and eco-friendly processes across all of its divisions, the company has "continuous improvement" to raise their economic value and improve their sustainability operations.

What does this mean for the consumer? In terms of the number of cars on the road, South Korea contributes 4.3 million cars every year as of 2012 (ranked fifth in the world in terms of production, after China, Japan, the United States, and Germany). The average gas mileage of the 2012 Kia model was between 29 miles per gallon to 34 miles per gallon. For example, the 2012 Ki Rio gets 30mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. You can find a Used Kia for less price and the same fuel efficiency.

When a company makes a green or sustainable claim, it's wise to review corporate-level communications; here's evidence of Kia's annual sustainability report and a stated objective of being an "Advanced CSR Global Leader" for Balance & Harmony.

Do your research before purchasing a car, and understand that each of our consumption habits signal our choices to the manufacturers and producers of the world. If we demand better fuel efficiency, more sustainable "green" production processes, and more accountability, the global companies will evolve to suit our demands.