Automatic injection optimizes detergent use. Materials are purchased in bulk, and reuse and recycling are also a priority. Marc Topel, manager, works with other cleaners, allied trade associations and local government environmental agencies to help foster better environmental practices by all dry cleaners. Programmable thermostats and lower settings have reduced energy use. Cooling water is reused to reduce water consumption.
Employees receive environmental, health and safety training.
Parts are tracked electronically to avoid paper inventory lists. Garlick recycles approximately 500 gallons of oil and 25 gallons of solvent annually. STAR, which was developed at IWRC, is designed to help spray painters improve their transfer efficiency, which is the ratio of how much paint is sprayed compared to how much paint is actually sticking to the part. Both Darryll and Kevin are instructors in MSU-Northern's Automotive Technology program, and have been professional spray painters. MSU-Northern will become the undergraduate center for STAR training in Montana.