As a commercial sector, automotive service and repair shops constitute the largest small quantity generators of hazardous waste in the U.S. Boulder County has approximately 300 auto repair shops, of which approximately 130 shops operate in the city of Boulder. Charlie Curran, of Gene's Continental Coach, with Sarah Van Pelt, PACE Coordinator. His shop is fully a certified PACE partner. The table below lists the primary waste streams in an auto repair shop. For most of these sources, less hazardous alternatives are available, or wastes can be reused or recycled.
Many solvents contain chlorinated compounds which can deplete the earth's protective ozone layer.
Most solvents currently used are highly flammable and contain VOCs which contribute to smog. Used oil contains toxic chemicals, and small amounts will contaminate a large quantity of water. Re-refining of used oil is an excellent pollution prevention option because it is much more efficient than refining crude oil. Other solid and hazardous waste streams include rags and absorbents, used tires and rubber parts, used filters, and used batteries. All of these streams can be reused or recycled to avoid landfilling of waste and possible contamination of soil and water from hazardous materials.