DEP COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HELPS FLORIDA BUSINESSES, ENVIRONMENT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 18, 2005                     

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, (850) 245-2112

                         

DEP COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HELPS FLORIDA BUSINESSES, ENVIRONMENT

--Program expansion assists automotive recyclers with waste management--

 

TALLAHASSEE - The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently
expanded a business assistance program to guide Florida's automotive
recycling industry through the environmental compliance process. The
Compliance Assistance Program is helping auto facility owners learn about
Florida's environmental regulations and prevent pollution by adopting best
management practices that range from proper container labeling to better
managing waste tires, antifreeze, used oil and other auto fluids.

"The industry response to the Compliance Assistance Program is encouraging,"
said DEP Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell.
"By focusing comprehensively on a company's environmental activities and
providing technical support, this assistance program will improve
environmental compliance and save businesses money."

The expanded Compliance Assistance Program for automotive recyclers now
includes a detailed workbook and environmental checklists to assist auto
recycling facility managers evaluate their operation and comply with
environmental laws.  Included in the workbook are best management practices
that help auto recyclers reduce waste and achieve an overall cleaner yard.
Modules focus on container management, preparing for emergencies, employee
training, waste disposal and documentation and spill prevention. 

Vehicle recyclers rebuild, recover and resell usable parts and materials that
cannot be reused in their present form. Adopting practices that reduce waste
and prevent pollution helps protect Florida's natural resources and reduces
operational costs for businesses by better managing hazardous waste and using
fewer raw or new materials.  

 

For additional information, visit:

www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/hazardous/pages/AutomotiveRecyclers.htm
<http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/hazardous/pages/AutomotiveRecycl
ers.htm> .

 

-30-