AJ's Automotive Repair Receives National Award

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - A Salem business known for its contributions to the local and statewide community, AJ's Automotive Repair, has received the 2006 Small Business Environmental Stewardship Award from the Environmental Protection Agency.

At Monday's meeting of the Salem City Council, Bob Anderson of AJ's Automotive Repair received a letter from Salem Mayor Janet Taylor congratulating AJ's for winning the award from the Environmental Protection Agency's(EPA) National Steering Committee for the Small Business Ombudsman and Small Business Assistance Programs. The award was presented to him at the National Conference in New Hampshire on March 27, 2006.

Salem's Public Works Department nominated AJ's for the award because of the company's demonstrated commitment for running the business with the utmost regard for the environment and the health of its workers. Stormwater Technician Justin Boyington, who led the nomination process, says, "It took me a couple of visits to really understand the depth of this commitment and the innovation involved."

AJ's accomplishments include:

AJ's was the first in Oregon to participate in the Mercury Switch-Out Program and has replaced over 2500 mercury switches for customers free of charge.

Its aqueous parts washing process uses a biodegradable detergent. Oils from the process are separated out and used in three used-oil furnaces.

Its "bird bath" brake washer reduces exposure to asbestos and eliminates the use of chlorinated solvent brake spray cans.

AJ's is a leader for identifying and applying alternatives to hazardous materials used in the automotive industry. Innovations include using PAM as a lubricant and cutting fluid and milk-of-magnesia as an anti-seizing compound.

Bob Anderson is a leader in the Northwest Automotive Trades Association and has helped many other auto shops in Oregon gain economic advantage by going above and beyond environmental compliance. He also has assisted the DEQ and others in promoting the Eco-Logical Business Program, the first multi-media environmental improvement program of its kind, throughout the nation.

Mayor Taylor stated, "The City of Salem is lucky to have such an industry leader and committed business in our midst," and thanked Bob Anderson for being part of the Salem community.