"By going green, dismantlers can reduce the cost of doing business, improve profitability, and demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability," he said.  "With a future that most certainly will include higher energy costs, increased regulations, and technological advancements, going green makes more sense than ever."

Kendziorski gave that message during his seminar, "Save Green by Going Green," as one of the featured speakers at SCADA's annual convention at the Newport Beach Hilton in Newport Beach on Sept. 11-14.

He is a nationally known expert in environmental compliance for recycling facilities and the program manager of Partners in the Solution, SCADA's award-winning compliance program for auto-dismantling facilities.

 
Kendziorski outlined the many options that exist for dismantlers who want to become environmentally conscious, including adapting solar energy and/or geothermal energy systems; natural lighting; energy-efficient windows; efficient heating, venting, and air-conditioning systems; natural landscaping, and good storm water practices.

Kendziorski said that companies can go green at a basic level by doing things such as using green cleaning supplies and rain barrels; or on a larger scale by constructing environmentally responsible buildings with alternative materials and recycling construction waste.

"Constructing green buildings typically costs an average of 2 percent more than conventional buildings but will help you reduce energy usage by 40 percent," he said.

Other ways that auto dismantlers can save money is by using alternative fuels to power their vehicles, such as biodiesel, electric, natural gas, hydrogen fuel cells, and propane, Kendziorski said.

"Loaders, heavy trucks, and forklifts can all be operated using alternative fuels," he said.  "Both the state and federal government will provide tax credits to companies that switch over to these cleaner solutions."

Solar energy is another highly effective way to go green, Kendziorski said.  "Solar is ideal for California, due to the intensity of sunlight here and the large number of cloud-free days. Ninety percent of the solar market in this country is right here in our state.  A solar setup will typically cost an average of $60,000, but the savings can be as high as 40 percent."

Recyclers who adopt green practices can save as much as 50 percent on their operating costs after three to 10 years, he said.

"It just makes sense, both financially and reputation wise, to go green in today's world," Kendziorski said.  "It's important to you, your customers, your employees, your stakeholders, and the auto recycling industry's image as a whole."