Autobody
Refinishing Industry Project (Autobody)
MEI’s Autobody Project
was an effort to reduce the release of hazardous air pollutants
(HAPs) and ozone precursors by autobody refinishing shops
in the Twin Cities. These pollutants affect air quality
near shops, pose health risks to workers, and are associated
with climate change. The autobody refinishing industry
is among the top 10 sources of HAPs in Minnesota, and
represents a diffuse area source of pollution since many
small, independently-owned shops comprise the industry.
Auto Body Technical Resource
Unveiled
MEI’s 2008 Autobody Refinishers Training and Technology
Demonstration Pilot Project provided outreach to Twin
Cities auto body shops in an effort to reduce emissions
of ozone precursors and air toxics produced by this industry.
In fulfilling the project’s
goals, MEI researched and compiled recommended emission
reduction practices and technologies, identified industry
leaders using these techniques, and hosted a free training
event on August 27, 2008 demonstrating best practices
to shop owners. MEI also facilitated the implementation
of pilot trials in five local body shops resulting in
approximately 1000 lbs. of annual emission reductions.
The final project component, a technical resource to
assist body shops with improving environmental performance,
has been permanently integrated into the
Minnesota Technical Assistance Program’s (MnTAP)
website. The site contains information for body
shop professionals on best practices, trainings and
associations, regulation and compliance, and funding
opportunities.
Who Funded this Project?
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Flint Hills Resources
For more information, contact Ellen
Gibson.
|
|
