Determined to do more than just engineer fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel transportation technologies, Chevrolet recently announced an initiative that will help reduce up to 8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere over the next few years.

It's going to be a while before the Chevy Volt hits the mainstream. We've got to do something to reduce carbon emissions long before everyone feels comfortable driving an electric car.

So Chevy decided to invest some of its money in carbon reduction projects that have nothing to do with transportation. The car manufacturer recently launched its "Carbon Stories" initiative: a project that will bring wind energy, solar power, and increased home efficiency to communities all across the country.

For example: Chevy is teaming up with the Maine State Housing Authority to help increase energy efficiency through a verifiable carbon reduction program — the weatherization of 5,500 low-income homes over the next 5 years. This project is underway, and it's already making a difference.

Dr. Michio Kaku, a theoretical physicist, best-selling author, and host of the Carbon Stories project, explains more:

In addition, Chevrolet is encouraging fans to visit its Facebook page (facebook.com/chevrolet) and plant a virtual tree with their Chevy Tree Project. For every Virtual Tree planted, Chevy will plant a real one in a National Forest.

You can learn more about the Carbon Stories project and view a map of upcoming carbon reduction projects here.

Image Credit: Flickr - kykorvette