Ford has published ``corporate citizenship'' reports for the past two years detailing issues such as the challenge of reconciling the booming sale of its gas-hogging sport utility vehicles with chairman William Clay Ford Jr.'s goal of improving the environment. Ford says it is also reevaluating its products and manufacturing operations in light of its declaration that global warming is a major problem.

Now GM is fighting back, trying to grab some positive press by setting up charts tracking its progress on building more fuel-efficient and cleaner burning SUVs and light trucks.

GM also launched an Internet site called GMability.com to promote its activities regarding the environment, economic investments, community partnerships and charity.

GM’s Web site also touts workplace safety gains. Says GM: “Working together, the United Auto Workers and GM have reduced serious injuries by 90 percent and OSHA recordables by almost 80 percent in the last seven years. That means that each year 55,000 fewer workers are injured and go home to their families safely. Health and safety has been an overriding priority for the UAW and GM since the first joint programs began in the 1970s.”

GM and UAW also offer programs for workers and their families to develop a total approach to safety and wellness through the “LifeSteps” health promotion program and safety-belt awareness programs.