Valley Adds to Number of “Green” Auto Repair Shops
Phoenix, Ariz. June 16, 2008 – Two Valley auto repair facilities have recently gone “green” by finding reasonable and cost-effective ways to protect the environment and conserve resources – a concept not often associated with the auto repair industry. The addition of these facilities brings the total number of AAA Green Shops across the state to 15 with several more awaiting reviews or inspections.
“When most people think of an auto repair facility, they envision oily rags and stained floors,” said Don Nunnari, vice president of membership products and services for AAA Arizona. “Once you visit a Green Shop, you will realize that image could not be farther from the truth. These shops take pride in their appearance, performance and ecological impact.”
As the certifying authority for the Arizona Green Business program, AAA Arizona inspects auto repair facilities that have applied for certification. To achieve this designation, facilities must demonstrate that they are reducing hazardous waste through the use of specialized equipment and cleaning methods and that they conserve natural resources by reusing supplies and recycling shop materials whenever possible.
Because of their commitment to pollution prevention and conservation measures recommended by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), the following two Green Shops have recently earned Arizona Green Business certification from AAA Arizona and ADEQ:
- AAA Mesa Auto Repair, 4126 E. Valley Auto Drive, Mesa.
- Kelly Clark Automotive Specialists, 4101 E. Bell Road, Phoenix.
These shops join the following Green Shops in the Phoenix area:
- AAA Peoria Auto Repair, 7422 W. Thunderbird in Peoria.
- Hi-Tech Car Care, 2924 E. Thomas Road.
- Tony’s Service Center, 5352 N. 16th Street in Phoenix.
The remainder of the state's Green Shops are located in the Tucson area. For a complete listing of Green Shops, visit www.aaaaz.com/news/articles/GreenShopList.htm
Green Shops also create a healthier workplace by following environmentally sound disposal and cleaning techniques. For instance, by using water-based cleaning systems instead of chemical solvents, facilities protect their employees from harmful chemicals, generate less pollution and save money. An Aqueous Parts Cleaning System can reduce solvent use by about 160 gallons per year, for example.
Many Arizona automotive facilities are learning that going “green” is good for business. In fact, studies show that all things being equal, the majority of consumers would prefer to do business with a shop that follows good environmental practices. AAA and ADEQ encourage consumers to do business with Green Shops, which are identified by the Arizona Green Business logo (see it at the top of this page).
AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
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