N.H. Auto Recyclers Earn Environmental Recognition

At a recent meeting of the Auto & Truck Recyclers Association of New Hampshire, the N.H. Department of Environmental Services commended the association’s leadership for helping DES to promote good environmental business practices at auto salvage yards throughout the state.

DES presented plaques of appreciation to ATRA President Jeff Kantor, and Vice President/Treasurer Bob Phelps, and thanked the entire membership for working hard to make auto recycling a cleaner industry.

The DES, working in cooperation with the ATRA, established the "N.H. Green Yards Program" to help auto recyclers improve environmental practices through education, compliance assistance, and compliance certification.

"The success of the N.H. Green Yards Program largely depends on the good working relationship we have with ATRA. ATRA has been instrumental in helping us better understand the needs and limitations of the auto recycling industry," said Pamela Sprague, manager of the N.H. Green Yards Program. "With ATRA’s help, we have designed the N.H. Green Yards Program around those needs and limitations. Mr. Kantor and Mr. Phelps are leading the way to build environmental stewardship and pride among New Hampshire auto salvage yard operators."

Among its many pollution prevention initiatives ATRA is currently promoting a voluntary effort to remove and properly dispose of mercury-containing light switches, found in some vehicle hood and trunk lids. DES is arranging for the proper disposal of the switches using federal grant money.

"Until car manufacturers stop putting toxic materials, like mercury, in cars," said Jeff Kantor, "auto recyclers and consumers are stuck handling the problem. Even though we think the manufacturers should be responsible for the cost of disposing of hazardous vehicle components, we saw an opportunity to partner with DES to help take care of a problem others are trying to avoid. I’m proud of the yards that have decided to participate in this effort. It costs them money and some of the smaller yards struggle to cover these extra costs."